“When you go out to battle against your enemies and see horses and chariots and people more numerous than you, do not be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, who brought you up from the land of Egypt, is with you..” ( Deuteronomy 20:1).

Peter was one cool courageous fellow! Plucked out of his fishing job, which for a man of his energies, must have been rather boring, he was happy to take up second in command in Jesus’s army. He was never short of words or one who hesitated to take action. So quite aware of his gusto, once the Lord remarked, “Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it” (Mathew 16:18).
About some time later when Peter heard that everyone in Jesus army was about to desert him, he immediately protested. “But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you” ( Mathew 26:35). He was not bluffing. The day soldiers arrived with swords, “Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear.” (John 18:12). Yes, Peter was ready for battle.
But then our friend was disappointed. For Jesus “commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” ( vv 11). Peter thought that physical battle was the thing. He was not aware there was also the spiritual battle.
For while the soldiers and high priests seemed overwhelming, there was another mighty army of angels guarding Jesus! It’s a fact that Jesus had to go through the torture of being arrested and crucified like a criminal but all was for a certain purpose- ultimately he would triumph over death and wipe away all the suffering he had endured.

So, the victory Peter must have longed for was accomplished without a sword being lifted. Friend, when like Peter you too are faced with a battle and it seems the physical army before you is quite overwhelming, just know there is an army of angels eager and able to protect and deliver you to victory, but only on the Lord’s schedule!

Prayer today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, where I am faced with any forces raised against me, I know there is an army far greater than of the enemy, whose trust I put in you for victory belongs to you, this I pray in Jesus’ name.