The Importance of a Strong Grip
2Samuel 23:9-10 — And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David, when they defied the Philistines that were there gathered together to battle, and the men of Israel were gone away:
He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clave unto the sword: and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil.
Pasdammim was the place where Eleazar and David took a stand against the Philistines in a field of barley after the rest of Israel had fled. According to this passage, Eleazar’s hand wouldn’t open after the battle to release his sword. What a fight that must have been!
I think Eleazar is a great example for us in our spiritual warfare. His commitment to David and His Lord were tested that day, and he passed the test with flying colors! When others fled, he stood with David to fight against the odds. He did not put down his sword in surrender, but kept battling long after his arm grew tired and his muscles sore with the strain. Though outnumbered, he stood with David and did his part to win the day. God was with David and Eleazar, also. The efforts of David and Eleazar were extreme, but the Bible clearly states, “the LORD wrought a great victory that day.” So God was enabling Eleazar to defend David and defeat his adversaries.
Is that not exactly like our lives? We work hard, but realize God has to give us the strength and wisdom for each day. Our flesh will grow tired, but we must press on. Ephesians 6:17 says the Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. In spiritual warfare we need to cling to the Word of God like Eleazar clung to his sword. It is our only offensive weapon in the spiritual armor, and we need it to defeat the flesh and Satan. Jesus set the example of using the Sword when he defeated the Devil’s temptations in Matthew 4:1-11.
When we want to quit, Hebrews reminds us to focus on Christ: Hebrews 12:2-3
When we are afraid, we can defeat fear with Scripture: I John 4:18
When we feel we cannot be victorious, the Word of God tells us that we can, through God’s strength: Philippians 4:13; I Corinthians 10:13
When we are defeated by sin, the Bible tells us God will cleanse us: I John 1:9
When tempted with lust, the Sword instructs us to flee: 1Corinthians 6:18; 2Timothy 2:22
When overcome by sadness, the Word of God encourages us that God has a plan for us: Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28
When in the valleys, Scripture reminds us that God is with us: Psalm 23
How tight is your grip on the Word of God?
Oh, Lord, help us to use your Word to win today’s battles. Bring to mind the verses that will help us handle life’s challenges correctly and glorify You. Please allow us to gain victory today through Your strength.