Sword

August 21–Ezekiel 30-32

“Then they will know that I am the Lord, when I put My sword into the hands of the king of Babylon and he stretches it out against the land of Egypt”(30:25).

It is a reminder we need. God works in war. He is present. Aware. Involved. He determines outcomes. “One of your men puts to flight a thousand, for the Lord your God is He who fights for you, just as He promised”(Joshua 23:10, italics mine).

Some people believe that war is a contradiction to the love of God, that war is essentially evil, that God is NOT INVOLVED in it. Scripture says they are mistaken.

In Ezekiel 30:24, God talks about giving His SWORD to the King of Babylon! Amazing language! A tool of violence, God’s sword was in a Babylonian hand. God takes sides. God is involved, even in war.

In the coming age, we will beat our swords into ploughs. See Isaiah 2:4. In the present age, however, God gives approval for the limited use of the sword. See Romans 13.

Early generations were clear on this point. At D-Day, in WWII, MANY in our nation believed that God was helping us. In the Civil war, believers perceived the forward-marching will of God even in the violent conflict. Scripture teaches the same confidence. God is very present in war. Unafraid. Unconquered. Tough. Fearless. Holy.

In Matthew 26, Jesus tells Peter to put away his metal sword. A Spiritual kingdom is not advanced by the use of military force. In the days that followed, however, Peter began to realize the power of the sword of God’s word.

In a fallen world both swords are necessary. When we are to use which sword is a decision the Lord must make and communicate to us who love Him. He is faithful to do so.

Will you be strong and brave, dear one? God has a sword. He is not afraid to use it. Will you stand with Him?

“From His mouth comes a sword so that He may strike down the nations” (Revelation 19:15).

“For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).