A banner is a standard in battle. If the banner goes down, the troops flounder. Often, in battles across the centuries, if the banner did fall, another soldier would pick it up and wave it high. Stories abound of such things in our wars all across the world. The banner encourages, gives the troops the sense that the cause is worth fighting for. In the heat of battle, that was important.
It was true when the “Star Spangled Banner” was written during a difficult battle in 1812 for the future of this nation. All night long, the British sent gunfire on the village with the intention of destroying the flag. But that star spangled banner waved all night. The next day, the flag was flying tattered. It seemed that every time it fell, someone in the village put it back up. The song and the flag became the banner for this nation. We take off our hats, cross our hearts and sing our allegiance in one accord.
This coming weekend, I will be speaking at my church’s ladies retreat. Our theme is “Princess Warrior.”
I’ll be reminding the ladies that God is all we need in battle. He is our Banner and our Shield. He holds our heads high. He has given us the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Though we may battle our own wandering minds in prayer, and our wills to follow Him instead of our own way, He has provided all we need to battle. He is with us and He has equipped us to fight the enemies of our souls as well as to fight for those we love .
So, we choose to fight the good fight—or not. What will our choice be? At what cost? Is it worth the cost? Will our Banner fly? Know your battles, count the cost, decide to will yourself to pray and follow the One who is in the lead.
We fight for our God and King. We have the right to defend our King and His Kingdom—our place of permanent residence. Keep your eyes looking up.
Jehovah Nissi – “The Lord is Our Victorious Banner.”
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” I John 3:1.
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