Deuteronomy 20 Devotional

Courage That Comes from God

“For the LORD your God goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.””Deuteronomy 20:4 (BSB)

Deuteronomy 20 is about war, yet it begins by sending soldiers home. Before battle, a priest reminds the army that the God who brought them out of Egypt goes with them to fight for them (20:1-4). Then the officers dismiss anyone with a new house not yet dedicated, a vineyard not yet enjoyed, a bride not yet married, and anyone who is simply afraid (20:5-8). Israel's strength would not be measured by its numbers.

The chapter also holds hard commands. Distant cities are first offered peace, but if they refuse, their men are killed (20:10-13). The cities of the nations in the land are devoted to complete destruction, so that their detestable worship will not lead Israel into sin (20:16-18). The text does not soften this judgment. Yet even in a long siege, fruit trees must be spared, since they are not the enemy (20:19). God sets limits even on war. The courage he gives his people does not come from their size but from his presence, and that presence goes with you into whatever you face today.

To think about: What are you facing right now where you need courage that comes from God's presence rather than from your own strength?