200 years ago, September 13/14, 1814 - The Battle of Fort McHenry
For a transcript, check out: The Star Spangled Banner
Heavenly Father
As the 200th anniversary approaches for the Star Spangled Banner, may we give thanks for Your Providence in preserving our nation against formidable enemies. We pray we are not cast aside and we may still be used as an instrument of Your grace in the world.
May we repent of our sins as we live as if You do not exist. May we only fear You, so we need not fear any man. Fill us with Your Spirit and spark a revival in our land and bring us healing.
Keep all our heroes, who fight the battles on all fronts physically, morally, and spiritually. Shield them in Your special care. May Your presence dwell in them and give them strength in the power of Your Spirit.
In Jesus Name we pray,
Amen
The Star Spangled Banner lyrics
Amen.
Amen.
Read: 1 Samuel 17:32-37
The towering enemy strides into the Valley of Elah. He stands 9 feet tall, and his coat of armor, made of many small bronze plates, glimmers in the sunlight. The shaft of his spear is wrapped with cords so it can spin through the air and be thrown with greater distance and accuracy. Goliath looks invincible.
But David knows better. While Goliath may look like a giant and act like a giant, in contrast to the living God he is small. David has a right view of God and therefore a right view of the circumstances. He sees Goliath as one who is defying the armies of the living God (1 Sam. 17:26). He confidently appears before Goliath in his shepherds clothes, armed with only his staff, five stones, and a sling. His confidence is not in what he has but in who is with him (v.45).
What Goliath are you facing right now? It may be an impossible situation at work, a financial difficulty, or a broken relationship. With God all things are small in comparison. Nothing is too big for Him. The words of the hymnwriter Charles Wesley remind us: Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, and looks to that alone; laughs at impossibilities, and cries it shall be done. God is able to deliver you if thats His desire, and He may do so in ways you dont expect.
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