God & Me - Week 1: Wednesday

Deuteronomy 20:1-4

When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots, an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them; for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. Before you engage in battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the troops, and shall say to them: “Hear, O Israel! Today you are drawing near to do battle against your enemies. Do not lose heart, or be afraid, or panic, or be in dread of them; for it is the Lord your God who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory.”

Commentary

St. Cyprian of Carthage
God watches us fight for our faith. His angels watch us, and Christ watches us. How great is the dignity, joy, and glory of competing and being crowned in the presence of God with Christ as the Judge! Beloved, let us be armed with our whole strength and let us be prepared for the struggle with uncorrupted minds, solid faith, and devoted courage. Let the army of God march forward to the appointed battlefield.

Questions

• What word or phrase really stood out to me that I should consider memorizing? 

• What do these readings tell me about who God is, and His role in my spiritual warfare? 

• What are the details of my life that really overwhelm me or intimidate me? How can God come alongside me in facing these things? 

• Who are the people in my life that remind me not to lose heart or be afraid? Name them, keep them close, and reach out to them whenever needed.