Prepare for Battle

“Behold, one will fly swiftly like an eagle and spread out his wings against Moab … Moab will be destroyed from being a people because he has become arrogant toward the LORD.” – Jeremiah 48:40, 42 NASB

For centuries, the Romans ruled an empire stretching from Britain to the Caspian Sea. Gradually, they became overconfident. Discipline had slackened, and their resolve had been weakened by corruption.

Then in August 378 AD, Rome encountered an army of Visigoths at Adrianople (in modern Turkey). They expected an easy victory. But as military historian Bevin Alexander observed, the Romans did not realize that they were facing a “new type of warrior” with new weapons and new strategies. These Goths fought a different kind of war for which the Romans were not prepared. Going into battle, the Romans felt invincible. But the Goths surprised them and crushed the Roman army.

The Bible described a similar situation when Moab became confident in themselves, trusting their abilities and strongholds. They were not humble, vigilant, or prepared to face their enemies, but had “become arrogant toward the Lord.” As a result, even their mighty men could not stand against the attacks.

Are you ready for challenges? Ask God to search your heart and mind to be sure you are not overconfident. Remember, you are in a spiritual war. Take seriously the battles going on all around you. Do not assume that you are immune from attack. Humble yourself and put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17). Pray and trust Him. Go into battle prepared, ready for victory.

Reflection Question: Personalize each part of Ephesians 6:11-18 as a prayer.