Living by FaithSample

The Divine Warrior

Alexander the Great was the greatest of warriors who remained undefeated in battle. He was so revered by the Ptolemies who ruled Egypt that they built a colossal tomb for his remains in Alexandria. Roman generals such as Pompey, Julius Caesar and Augustus visited Alexander’s tomb to pay homage. The tomb was a monument to Alexander’s achievements. However it also is a reminder that Alexander, who was likened as the god of war could not conquer death. At age 32 Alexander, who had conquered the whole known world simply died. Alexander was merely mortal, but not so the God of Israel. He is a divine warrior unlike any this world has known. 

The Old Testament names God as LORD of hosts (LORD Sabaoth) 261 times. Our God is a mighty warrior who commands the angelic armies of heaven. Habakkuk presents this reality in poetic fashion describing the awesome might of the divine warrior. God by His very presence is able to inspire fear and cause destruction in the nations that conspire against Him. All of nature obeys His commands so that even the waters follow His will. When the children of Israel were pursued by Pharaoh’s chariots, God caused the Red Sea to engulf them. God delivered His people by hurling the horse and rider into the sea (Exodus 15:1). He waged war for His people and won victory after victory, leading them to peace in the Promised Land. 

Our God in Jesus has disarmed the powers and authorities. He has made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross (Colossians 2:15). Satan has been defanged. Jesus has defeated the grave. God has justified us. The child of God has nothing to fear in this world, for if God be for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)?