Standing Together

When Joab saw that there was a battle line in front of him and another behind him, he chose some men out of all the elite troops of Israel and lined up in battle formation to engage the Arameans. 10 He placed the rest of the forces under the command of his brother Abishai who lined up in battle formation to engage the Ammonites.11 “If the Arameans are too strong for me,” Joab said, “then you will be my help. However, if the Ammonites are too strong for you, I’ll come to help you.

2 Sam 10:9-11 (HCSB)

Have you ever felt outnumbered? Joab did. He saw his enemies lining up in front and in back. He called upon his brother Abishai to help and they devised a plan. I think that plan leads us to some important spiritual truths.

We may not have actual physical enemies lining up against us but there certainly are spiritual one. What can we do when we are overwhelmed by temptation, culture and this world. We turn to our brothers. Spiritual brothers who will stand with us. There is nothing more encouraging than to have a brother who will stand with you. Who will challenge, encourage and strengthen in time of need. That's why fellowship and relationships with other believers is so important. You really can't be all that God wants you to be alone. You need a brother.

If you are not in a relationship with another believer who can strengthen you, may I encourage you to seek one out. Get involved in a local Bible believing church. Find a group of men (for the guys) or women (for the ladies) who will strengthen and support, encourage and challenge you. That support group will make all the difference.