“The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. 9 Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.”10 So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. 11 As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. 12 When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. 13 So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.” Exodus 17:8-13
“Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner.” Exodus 17:15
Jehova Nissi, The Lord my Banner,
This is the first mention of Joshua and he proves himself faithful and capable. The banner told the enemy who they were and Moses wanted to give all the glory to God. He did not want to be a superstar or take any attention. He knew that all they achieved was because of You. Help us stay humble and Have You as our banner for victory over sin.
I love the picture of Moses standing before You on their behalf and needing others to help him. Thank you for those who intercede, pray together for us and the church. And a threesome reminding us of Jesus being encouraged by Moses and Elijah on the Mount of transfiguration (Matthew 17:3). And of course that a three cord strand is not easily broken ( Ecclesiastes 4:12). Finally it reminds me that You are one, but also trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. You are our banner and we are stronger when we stand together, hold each other up and seek Your face.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Thursday 13th February 2025
Had to be a battle song . . .
Onward, Christian soldiers,
marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus
going on before!
Christ, the royal Master,
leads against the foe;
Forward into battle,
see his banner go!
Onward, Christian soldiers,
marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus
going on before!
Like a mighty army
moves the church of God;
Brothers, we are treading
where the saints have trod;
We are not divided;
all one body we,
One in hope and doctrine,
one in charity.
Chorus
Onward, then, ye people,
join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices
in the triumph song;
Glory, laud, and honor,
unto Christ the King;
This thro’ countless ages
men and angels sing. [Refrain]
Lyrics: S Baring Gould