When God rescued the children of Israel from slavery in Egypt, He performed mighty wonders such as the plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. However, His intention was not for them to return to Egypt after their deliverance. Throughout their journey, God provided for the Israelites by leading them with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, giving them water and miraculous manna from heaven, and His presence was continually known among the people. 

During the Exodus period, the Israelites faced hardships to teach them the importance of relying on God. While some learned these valuable lessons, others longed to return to Egypt and even complained against God for their suffering. Despite the freedom granted to them by God, they needed to understand that walking in victory required faith, effort, and discipline.

God’s plan for Israel went beyond saving them from Egyptian bondage. When they reached the Promised Land, they had to FIGHT to take possession of Canaan. They only possessed what they FOUGHT for, not for what they simply wished and hoped to obtain. 

This truth applies to us today as well. God delivers us from the bondage of sin, but expects us to CONQUER the spiritual enemies that threaten our prosperity. Enjoying the fruit of the Promised Land requires taking dominion, and through Christ, we can overcome all spiritual threats just as the faithful Israelites learned to do.

26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.

27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

~ 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

~ 1 Timothy 6:12

Holy God and Father in heaven. I thank You for saving me from my sins through the blood of Jesus. There are times in my life that seem mundane or even difficult, and f I am not thinking correctly, I may let my guard down. Even worse, there have been times when I slipped back into my old ways of thinking. Though You are a gracious and forgiving Father, I know You do not want me to look back on my old ways with fondness, nor do You want me to be stagnant in my service to You in this life. Instead, You want me to fight for what is worth fighting for! Grant me a stronger faith! May I give You my best efforts today, and may I grow in self-discipline! Where I am falling short, guide and guard my steps to grow, O Lord!! It is in Christ’s name I pray, amen.