While reading through I Samuel this week I was struck by a scripture that reminded me how powerful one person is if they are fully committed to belief in God. The scripture goes to great length to explain how Israel had no weapons. It states only Saul and Jonathan had weapons. Israel, as usual, was outnumbered in this battle.
Jonathan decided something had to be done to break the deadlock. He told his armor bearer to come with him to approach the Philistines. Then Jonathan makes the most beautiful statement. He fully understands that his army has no weapons and he fully knows it is only he and his armor bearer making this charge into enemy territory, but he says, “Nothing restrains the Lord from saving by many or by few”.
When I read those words my heart leapt for joy! Too often we look around us and think there is nothing we can do because we are so few in number. In fact, the news doesn’t even call us the “silent majority” any longer. The word majority is not used in reference to those holding Christ like values. But Jonathan paints a powerful picture. He knew it did not matter if he was a majority or minority. He had God! He assured his friend that God could bring success whether there was a lot to work with or a little because it would all be done by God’s might.
I am asking God to continue working on me until there is no battle field I will not charge if it is to bring HIM glory. For strength not to be concerned if “everybody” is with me or not. But to stand in the knowledge God is with me. HE is the one who brings the victory no matter how many men are on the field. HE is looking for those willing to march out to defend and honor HIS Name and HIS Kingdom.
It doesn’t take an army; it only takes a soldier to push the enemy back if that soldier is empowered by God. We need to study God’s word to learn HIS will. When are confident we have discerned the will of God in a circumstance then we need to march forward whether a crowd goes with us or not. It is time to make our stand based on God’s Word not the attitude of those around us. Let’s face it, Moses, Abraham, Joshua; Isaiah, etc. were not great crowd pleasers. But they surely influenced their generations.
Our forefathers (spiritually and politically) knew the power an individual could exert. We need to remind ourselves of that often. Whether it is speaking to one stranger that God brings to your attention or making a public stand against sin; one person can change life for others.
Our God is able!