Battle Songs of the Faithful

By Deb Marsalisi

“As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places. He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your gentleness has made me great. You enlarged my path under me; so my feet did not slip.”—2 Samuel 22:31–37 (NKJV)

How often do you think the average American Christian thinks of God as a warrior? This isn’t our frame of reference, likely because our nation’s history has been relatively peaceful in contrast to the Middle East for the last 249 years. I’m sure we’re all immensely grateful that constant strife and war haven't been a part of the fabric of our country. However, this lack of experience often makes our perspective of God one-sided. We tend to mostly focus on God’s tenderness and compassion, forgetting He’s powerfully fierce.

Think how different our perspective on life, our trials, and the world stage would be if we’d acknowledge God in the well-rounded way He’s revealed in Scripture—tender and strong; gentle and yet a mighty warrior.

“The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is his name.”—Exodus 15:3 (NIV)

“The Lord will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal.”—Isaiah 42:13 (NIV)

This whole chapter is a declaration of worship, thanksgiving, and praise written by King David towards the end of his life. It mirrors Psalm 18 almost word for word. David’s reflecting back on his life, which was full of challenges, grief, political strife, and war. And yet, he still declares with the utmost beauty and clarity: “God, You’re my protection, my provision. You’re faithful. Every victory is Yours, not by my military skill but by Your power and strength! I’m only standing because You delivered me.”

We’re only standing because God delivered us! A war is being waged in the unseen realm. The darkness wants to devour us on all sides, and we can’t fight with our own strength! We need to call upon the Lord for deliverance. So He marches out like a champion, like a warrior, and fights on our behalf.

Ways to win in spiritual warfare . . .

All we have to do is take a page out of David’s book and follow the three patterns we see in his life: praise, thanksgiving, and worship!

We’re instructed to praise the Lord countless times in the Word. It’s a joyful remembrance of all the Lord has done for us. Thanksgiving is closely mingled with praise, as we express gratitude for His compassion and mightiness. Praise can be expressed in so many wonderful ways—singing, shouting, dancing, poetry, musical instruments, just to name a few. When done from the heart, no matter what it sounds like to others, it’s sweet and beautiful to the Lord. (This is just a reminder for when someone is screeching a song a few seats behind you in church.)

Worship is intimate and deeply personal—and God’s the ONLY One who deserves it. Worship doesn’t always come easy to the human heart. Worship involves dying to our own wants and desires to do what pleases Him. It’s giving up control of our lives and trusting God to make a way when there seems to be no way. He’s the way maker!

Echoing the words of David: God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. After all, He’s a warrior and our battles in life can only be won through Him.

Pause: Are you in a spiritual battle? Life’s insurmountable trials can only be won through Him. David knew this in such a real and tangible way. Do you?

Practice: Praise, thank, and worship the Lord this week.

Pray: Dear heavenly Father, please forgive me when I forget to see You as the mighty warrior that You are. I’m at fault! Not only can You fight my battles, You will fight for me. You are my deliverer. Thank You for the shield of Your salvation. I love You, Lord. Amen.