Youth Bible Study
Verse of The Day
Deuteronomy 2.24 – Rise up, set out on your journey, and go over the Valley of the Arnon. Behold, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to take possession, and contend with him in battle (ESV)
Take Hold Of That Which God Has Promised You
In today’s reading, God had already destined Sihon and the Amorites to be defeated by the Israelites. However, the Israelites were also urged to engage in battle with them. This highlights the advantage of understanding spiritual realities, as the spiritual realm influences the physical world. Spirits, existing beyond time, can foresee events and guide those aligned with them to make wise choices in battle. This insight grants a foreknowledge of victory before the battle even begins. The Bible shows that the entry of spirits after man’s fall caused chaos and distorted knowledge. However, those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, unwavering and firm (Psalms 125:1). Abiding in God’s word allows His promises to be fulfilled, as we can ask for anything in His name and it will be granted (John 15:7). God, the supreme Being, works within us to fulfill His good purpose (Philippians 2:13). Aligning with Him ensures we are on the right path, as He guided the Israelites.
Getting Ready for Battle
The reading highlights the process of claiming God’s promises, as seen in the command to “Contend with the King of Heshbon and engage him in battle.” This battle isn’t a casual affair but requires discipline, preparation, and sacrifice. Discipline involves separating from distractions, while preparation involves training in strategy, strength, and stamina. Sacrifice is inevitable during the battle, including the loss of resources, but the ultimate focus is on achieving victory.
And For You My Dear Youth
What has God promised you that you are yet to have? Wealth (Proverbs 8.18)? good career (Proverbs 16.3)? good spouse (Ecclesiastes 4.9)? Children (Deuteronomy 28:4)? long life (Jeremiah 29.11), peace (John 14.27)? health (Jeremiah 33.6)? etc. Today’s passage emphasizes that our blessings won’t simply fall into our laps; even when God decrees something for us, negative forces may try to hinder it. Therefore, we must engage in spiritual warfare to claim what is rightfully ours. This involves separating ourselves from worldly influences, dedicating time to spiritual growth, and being willing to make sacrifices to stay aligned with God’s will. By praying fervently and taking action, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals, whether it’s in our career, relationships, or personal endeavors. The story of Daniel battling the Prince of Persia exemplifies this struggle against spiritual forces, showing the power of persistent prayer and divine intervention.
Prayer
As we meditate on this word today may God give is the grace to engage in prayer through which we can contend with the spiritual world holding our blessings and come out victorious. Amen
Overcoming Addiction
I write to you, young men and women, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one (ESV 1 John 2.14)
Remain Blesses Always