A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 64

Text: Psalm 18

DESCRIPTION OF A BATTLE

David wrote much about how the Lord taught him and equipped him for battle. But how did he actually fare in real-life battles? We have a good description in this text.

"I have pursued my enemies and overtaken them;
Neither did I turn back again till they were destroyed.
I have wounded them, so that they could not rise;
They have fallen under my feet"
Psalm 18:37-38

1. Understanding the essence of war

David clearly understood the war that he had waged against his enemies. He entered into war to extirpate wicked men who rose up against him.

2. All within God's will

At first glance, it might appear that David seemed to enjoy killing! In order to understand this text we need to refresh our memory concerning the enemy:-

a) Strong enemy

David did not fight weaklings! He described his enemies as people who were "too strong for him" (Psalm 18:17)

b) Historical footnote

The Philistines were traditional enemies of Israel. Time and again, they troubled Israel! These enemies were anything but weak!

David was no bloodthirsty king. He fought to defend the kingdom and his people from being harassed or killed by their enemies. Killing in war, especially when it is in defence of a the homeland, is justifiable!

GOD'S INVOLVEMENT IN JUST WARS

David knew that his battles were necessary ones. The conquest of the land of Israel was not complete in the days of Joshua. There was too much land to conquer!

Joshua had been told just why he had to give battle to the people living in the land of Canaan! God had sent Israel to wage a just war against the wicked inhabitants of the land. Instead of full obedience, they only made the inhabitants of the land of Canaan their servants! In the process of time, the Canaanites ended up turning the hearts of the Israelite to idolatry (Cf. Judges 1-2).

David knew better! He was determined to obey the Lord in destroying his enemies. Just wars are spiritual battles in a sense! God's involvement may be counted on!

"For You have armed me with strength for battle;
You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.
You have also given me the necks of my enemies,
So that I destroyed those who hated me"
Psalm 18:39-40

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~