A Defensive Stance
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He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” – II Kings 6:16 (NKJV)
I am easily distracted by nature. This proved to be a huge problem once I got my driver’s license. I failed to note a road sign, made an illegal turn, and got pulled over by a police officer.
My dad insisted that I go to traffic school, and this was where I heard the term “defensive driving” for the first time. I learned to drive with a watchful eye that surveyed the road for unexpected obstructions.
Driving school helped me understand the rules of the road so that I drove with discretion and confidence, rather than inattentive carelessness.
As a believer, I’ve also learned the importance of “keeping watch.” The enemy of my soul seeks to keep me distracted and disillusioned, but I am armed with the spiritual armor that I need to confidently keep a defensive stance. Nehemiah exemplified this principle as he built the wall. He courageously stood his ground against opposition by faithfully obeying God’s commands. He stayed prayerfully alert with a weapon in one hand as he worked. Because Nehemiah believed that His mighty God ruled over all, he moved forward without fear and encouraged his co-laborers to do the same.
Rather than cower in the face of obstructions and opposition, we must ask God to give us eyes to see His overcoming power at work in our lives. In II Kings 6, Elisha’s young servant cowers in fear when he steps out of his tent and sees the enemy surrounding their camp, but the wise prophet prays for him to view the terrain with keener spiritual eyesight. Elisha said to his servant, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
As God’s servants, we need not fear as we move forward on the road of life. Our omnipotent God is surrounding us with His protection and provision. Let’s maintain a defensive stance in prayer and follow His path until the end.
Let’s Talk: Do you find it difficult to “keep watch” and adopt a “defensive stance” in your daily life?
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This year, my desire is to lift up holy hands and “Pray Big.” Want to join me? I’ve created a private “Pray Big” Facebook group for like-minded sisters to share their stories and surrender each one to our mountain-moving God in prayer. Let’s cry out to God together.
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“A Defensive Stance” was originally published at Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale’s Daily Devo.
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I am sharing “A Defensive Stance” and joining like-minded sisters at Give Me Grace, Weekend Whispers, Spiritual Sundays, Faith-Filled Friday, Blessing Counters, Live Free Thursday, Grace Moments, Tell His Story, Coffee for Your Heart, Three-Word Wednesday, Purposeful Faith’s RaRaLinkup, Rich-Faith Rising, Testimony Tuesday, and Sharing His Beauty.
Lyli,
Yes, we need Ephesians 6:10-18 daily. I’ve been praying for Bruce’s recovery. And I pray you are over your cold. May God encourage and lift up both of your spirits…((hugs))
#ArmorOn 🙂 — Thanks for praying, Dolly. xo
Reminds me to always be vigilant because the enemy is prowling. Always on the ready to strike.
Beautiful and enlightening.
Beautiful, Lyli. <3
Thank you, Lyli. I’m glad I am your neighbor at Holley’s. I love the story of God opening the servant’s eyes to see the protection God is surrounding them with and God’s promise, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Thank you for this encouraging reminder.
Keeping watch is so important, isn’t it? That enemy so easily tries to sneak in. Have you ever noticed how many times in Scripture we hear the words “Do not be afraid?” It appears numerous times. In those words, I believe God is reminding us that God is in control and we shouldn’t be afraid. Great post! Blessed to be your neighbor over at Three Word Wednesday today!
We have to know what we know and protect our hearts our knowledge and those that we love. The enemy is right there to steal it all away but if we trust in the protection God has to offer and follow his word we will be taken care of
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“Armor on” , “a defensive stance” sounds like “stay on your post” , a term I’ve applied to my life of faith. All good stuff. Thanks for sharing Lyli!
Lyli – thanks for sharing at #GIveMeGrace this weekend. Be every watchful and on guard against the enemy and his schemes. Amen! I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate you very much.
Oh, yes, I do. I have a bit of ADD at times and I can easily lose sight of that place where I need to stand and way and hold on to what He has called me to. There are so many times I just want to be offensive, because it feels like I am doing something worthwhile. Just today, I was reminded that HE is my defender and I need to rest in Him in all things.
Your words were waiting for me there to read and be encouraged.
Thanks so much! And thanks for linking up at #GraceMoments!
Blessings!
Dawn