God of Breakthroughs

“’God has broken through my enemies by my hand, like the breakthrough of waters.’ Therefore they named that place Baal-perazim.”—1 Chronicles 14:11 NASB

David faced a powerful adversary. It would have been easy for him to accept defeat.

Israel’s powerful enemies the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king. They surely knew David defeated their champion, Goliath, and led Israel’s armies to victories. These Philistines seemed determined to attack this adversary, proactively going in search of David in a raid west of Jerusalem.

David was ready to confront these enemies. But before taking any action, he inquired of God who told him, “Go up, for I will hand them over to you” (v. 10). When he followed God’s leading, he won a great victory.

It was a great breakthrough. God shattered the walls that stood before David. There may have appeared to be no weaknesses, but God had created a breach.

David was conscious of the enormity of the problem he faced and all God had done for him. It was such a powerful moment that he changed the name of the place where the battle was fought. It became Baal-perazim, the Lord of the Breakthrough. David wanted everyone to remember that God had given him a great breakthrough there.

We face many adversaries. We can feel overwhelmed and outnumbered. It can seem that defeat is inevitable, and our enemies have no weaknesses.

As you face obstacles, remember you serve the God of breakthroughs. He has the power to give you victory and give you breakthroughs.

Reflection Question: What breakthrough are you praying for this week?