I recently delved into a remarkable book by John Eckhardt titled *Fasting for Breakthrough and Deliverance*, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way. The pages were filled with insights that resonated deeply with me; in fact, I found myself underlining more lines than I left untouched. That’s quite unusual for me, as I’ve read an abundance of books over time, and few have captivated my attention like this one did. It felt incredibly timely and relevant as if it had come into my life at just the right moment.
One part that struck me was when he referred to a scripture that I can hardly recall ever encountering before. Given that I’ve read through my Bible multiple times, it surprised me to discover a verse tucked away in the Book of Second Samuel that had escaped my attention. Its profound message left me pondering long after I closed the book. That’s what I want to share with you today – beginning with the scripture mentioned above.
Now there was a long war between the house of Saul and the house of David. But David grew stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (2 Sam. 3:1)
This is such an awesome scripture.
Have you ever felt the heavy burden of a prolonged struggle, as if you’re caught in a battle that seems never-ending? A long war. If you can relate, I understand completely. This passage of scripture highlights that God’s people should adopt a different mindset than those who oppose His Word. While others may weaken in battle, we are called to remain hopeful and resilient, anchored in faith through our trials, growing stronger daily.
It reminds me of a scripture in the Book of Proverbs. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. (Prov 13:12)
The Message Bible says it this way: Unrelenting disappointment makes the heart sick.
I’ve endured seasons that felt like an endless battle, where each day brought with it an unyielding wave of disappointment, one after another. I understand the deep ache of a heart weighed down by unrelenting attacks, the kind that attempt to settle in your heart and crush your faith.
But this scripture in 2 Samuel paints a different picture. As the fierce battle raged on, it became evident that with each passing moment, David’s strength grew increasingly formidable. In contrast, the resolve of his opponents began to wane, their energy draining away with every conflict. We, my friend, are part of David’s covenant lineage.
That means we have this wonderful opportunity to grow stronger and stronger as our battle rages on. How do we do that? Through God. All things are possible to him and for him who believes.
Psalms 18:34 says, He teaches my hands to make war, So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
What I find interesting is that this scripture is David speaking, and it came from the time of the long war with Saul. I highly recommend you read 2 Samuel 22 in its entirety – but for now, I want to share verses 29-41 with you.
For You are my lamp, O Lord; The Lord shall enlighten my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop; By my God I can leap over a wall. As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. “For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer and sets me on my high places. He teaches my hands to make war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. “You have also given me the shield of Your salvation; Your gentleness has made me great. You enlarged my path under me; So my feet did not slip. “I have pursued my enemies and destroyed them; Neither did I turn back again till they were destroyed. And I have destroyed them and wounded them so that they could not rise; They have fallen under my feet. For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose against me. You have also given me the necks of my enemies.
It is God who teaches us to war. It is God who brings us through long battles/wars stronger than when we went in. It is God who gives us strength for battle. And it is God who gives us the necks of our enemies.
My dear friend, I truly hope these words uplift and inspire those among you who have faced long and arduous struggles. It’s essential to understand that each challenge you encounter is not a sign of your weakening spirit; rather, it is a testament to your growing strength. With every trial, your adversary is steadily losing their power and influence over you. So, I urge you, don’t lose heart or falter in your resolve. Remember, there is a promise awaiting you—a promise of abundance and renewal. God will lead you to a place of overflowing blessings and joy. This assurance is not just for a select few; it is a divine promise made to the house of David, and we are proud members of that lineage.
