Philistines Defeated

 

1 Chronicles 14:8-12

 

March 10, 2023

 

Philistines Defeated

When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. But David heard of it and went out against them.  Now the Philistines had come and made a raid in the Valley of Rephaim.  And David inquired of God, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?” And the Lord said to him, “Go up, and I will give them into your hand.”  And he went up to Baal-perazim, and David struck them down there. And David said, “God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like a bursting flood.” Therefore the name of that place is called Baal-perazim.  And they left their gods there, and David gave command, and they were burned.

When I was in school and a substitute teacher took the teacher's place we tried to take advantage of her, is that what the Philistines are doing with David?  Is that what is happening in that they feared Saul, but the new kid might just allow them to take some territory.  That might be the thoughts that came into their minds, but the real battle came from another source, found in Ephesians 6:10-12, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. “  The devil hates God, so it makes sense he has disdain for the chosen people of God, and he has the same for you as a follower of Christ.  So get dressed for battle, you are going to need the equipment;  “the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,  and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.  In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,  praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”

 

From the Back Porch,

 

Bob Rice