“So Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, “Climb up after me; the Lord has given them into the hand of Israel.” 13 Jonathan climbed up, using his hands and feet, with his armor-bearer right behind him. The Philistines fell before Jonathan, and his armor-bearer followed and killed behind him. 14 In that first attack Jonathan and his armor-bearer killed some twenty men in an area of about half an acre.” 1 Samuel 14.12-14
I don’t care who you are or what kind of warrior or soldier you might be—defeating twenty men in an open-field battle with only an armor bearer by your side is a remarkable feat!
We know Jonathan was a warrior at heart, as was his armor bearer. They likely trained together and knew each other’s movements and abilities well. However, taking on a group of seasoned warriors would have been impossible on their own—that is, unless the Lord was with them.
This is what makes their victory so impressive: it wasn’t accomplished by their strength alone. Yes, God gave them the ability to fight, but without His presence and guidance, they would not have been victorious. God enabled them to achieve what they could not have done on their own.
Now, in terms of application, this is a straightforward one. Let me ask you this: What are you trying to do on your own that only God can handle? Are you caring for a loved one, building a program at work or school, or seeking rest in the midst of busy times? How can we continue to do the work while placing our trust in the Lord? When will we fully realize that it is God working through us to accomplish His purposes?
Jonathan didn’t enter the battle and then ask God for help. He sought the Lord’s favor first. I believe we can—and should—do the same. Even when we’re in the middle of a daunting project or calling, we can stop, pause, and ask God for guidance. Maybe you need to take a moment and do that right now.
The Lord is your strength and your helper. He is your rock and your salvation. He has sent His Son, Jesus, to save and restore us. He loves us and has a good plan for each of us. Just as Jonathan turned to the Lord and was saved, let us do the same today.
“O Lord God, you are good and faithful. I find my hope and my help in you. I am not alone, for you are with me. You are my rod and my staff; you bring me comfort. Come now, Holy Spirit, and fill me with your power and might. Help me to be the person you have called and created me to be. For you are good, and your love endures forever.” Amen.