Jonathan’s Victory Formula

“There was a panic in the camp, in the field, and among all the people. The garrison and even the raiders trembled, the earth quaked, and it became a very great panic.” 1 Samuel 14:15 ESV

The Israelites were overwhelmed. Their adversaries, the Philistine army, possessed more soldiers and superior weapons. While Israelite leaders contemplated a strategy, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, decided to put faith into action.

Without telling anyone else, he and his armor bearer went to investigate the Philistine camp. His comment: “It may be that the Lord will work for us, for nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.”

They would spy but also try to provoke their enemy. They would show themselves to the Philistines. If they said, “‘Wait until we come to you,’ then we will stand still in our place. But if they say, ‘Come up to us,’ then we will go up, for the Lord has given them into our hand.”

As they moved forward, some Philistines responded, “Look, Hebrews are coming out of the holes where they have hidden themselves.” They then “hailed Jonathan and his armor-bearer.”

Seeming to sense an attack, these Philistines said, “Come up to us, and we will show you a thing.” Jonathan instantly concluded that this was a sign that God was with them. So they move forward boldly in a surprise attack. Panic spread throughout the Philistine camp, which was intensified after God sent an earthquake.

Following Jonathan’s initiative, the entire Israelite army “went into the battle.” As a result, the Philistines experienced “very great confusion” and fled. Israel had experienced victory possible because Jonathan boldly believed God, and was willing to put his faith into action.

Jonathan had demonstrated a faith that moves mountains. Faith that is proven through action. By being a doer of the Word, not just a hearer (James 1:22).

Make sure that you believe God, but also put that faith into action.

Prayer: Father, I commit these issues to You: _________. I believe that You can do all things. Thank You for victory! Thank You for miracles! In Jesus’ name. Amen.