It is a familiar scene in movies set in medieval times. The battle is fierce and the warriors are weary, many of their comrades have fallen on the blood-soaked field, and the few that remain try to swing their swords with leaden arms. Then the cry rings out “Look! The king has come!” Eyes scan the horizon to see a bright flag with the king’s crest lifted high above the ridge. All is not lost! Their king has come to aid them in the fight. With renewed vigor, the men cheer as their sovereign wades into the sea of battle and leads them on to victory. They did not see him at first; they only saw his standard rising high into the sky – but it was all the assurance they needed. The king’s banner was the promise of his presence.
You and I fight a battle every day – we are at war against the enemy, satan, the lord of darkness, the devil himself. He is a fierce foe and he fights dirty. He has no mercy. My arms are weary, and my energy is spent. I look over at you and see the same – as if you are my reflection. There are tears in my eyes that match your own. It seems we’re just about done in. But all is not lost, my friend. Look! Our King has come! There, on the horizon – don’t you see it? It is the standard of our Sovereign rising high above the world. Though we do not yet see Him, His banner – a blood-red flag lifted high atop a cross – is our assurance that He is here in the fight.
He is Jehovah Gibbor Milchamah – The Lord Mighty in Battle (Ps 24:8). He is Jehovah Chereb – The Lord . . . The Sword and Jehovah Magen – The Lord . . . The Shield (Deut 33:29). He brings all His mighty angels as Jehovah Tsebaoth – The Lord of Hosts (1 Sam 1:3). The enemy is no match for Jehovah Maginnenu – The Lord our Defense (Ps 89:18). Renew your strength, Beloved, the victory is sure. We have seen His standard. His banner over us is love (Song of Songs 2:4).
Deeper Roots 