I love movies like "The Patriot". These men battled for a cause. Their hearts bled for their passion. As they marched into battle, they carried a banner. The banner symbolized who they were, what they stood for. The banner reminded them why they were fighting and gave them strength to continue. The Israelites looked at Moses' staff as their banner. When they faced their first opposition and Joshua led them into battle, Moses went to the hilltop and raised his staff. When the Israelites could see it they felt empowered, they knew God was with them. They felt His strength. When they could not see his staff raised, they doubted themselves in battle. I have been like the Israelites. When I feel God is with me, I'm fierce and courageous. When I doubt or feel alone, I forget He is still there. I begin to think I'm on my own. I start trying to figure things out for myself. I wander from the battlefield, from the banner, from the protection. We cannot go rogue. We must stay where the banner is raised. Have we fully given Him the battle we're facing? Have we taken down our own banners so that only His is raised? I had to tear down banners of pride, of confusion, of self-dependence. God is our refuge and strength in our battles. Prayer is another weapon in our arsenal and finally, community. Aaron and Hur were there for Moses to hold up the hands of their leader. Do you have people in your life that you know in the thick of the battle would stand along side you? Whether we're fighting an epic battle that seems to drag on for years or a sudden onslaught that came out of nowhere, raise God's banner high. Remember, we are the banners to the world. Don't miss an opportunity to share your stripes and tell of all the battles won because of Yahweh Nissi.
"Yet you have raised a flag for those who fear you
so that they can rally to it
when attacked by bows and arrows.
Save us with your powerful hand, and answer us
so that those who are dear to you may be rescued."
Psalm 60:4-5
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