Enemy Tactics
I have done this so that we may not be taken advantage of by Satan. For we are not ignorant of his schemes.
2 Corinthians 2:11 HCSB
Hezekiah, king of Judah, was one of the few kings to earn the distinction of doing what was right in God’s eyes. His father, Ahaz, however, did not. Ahaz established idol worship in Judah, encouraging God’s people to sin.
At only 25 years old, Hezekiah’s first act as king was to repair and open the temple so all the people could worship the one true God. The people’s passion for God returned, and they destroyed all the idols throughout Judah and part of Israel.
A time of testing was on its way. The king of Assyria set his sights on the cities of Judah and ultimately Jerusalem. He used Satan’s age-old tactics.
Division - The Assyrian king hoped to bring division among the people by speaking against Hezekiah.
Misrepresenting God - The king spoke lies, saying that God would not be able to deliver His people.
Discouragement - Assyria’s king tried to frighten and discourage the people by enticing them to look at Assyria’s strength and former conquests rather than God.
But Hezekiah was ready. He had some battle plans of his own.
Preparation - Hezekiah stopped up the springs and diverted the water into Jerusalem, providing plenty of water. He rebuilt and strengthened the surrounding wall and towers. He made weapons and appointed commanders for his troops.
Encouragement - He motivated the people not to fear the Assyrians, but to trust in God.
Prayer - Hezekiah and Isaiah, the prophet, prayed to God for help.
The battle was won miraculously. The Lord sent an angel who annihilated every brave warrior, leader, and commander in the camp of the king of Assyria (2 Chronicles 32:21 HCSB).
The same battle tactics can help us fight when we are attacked. Prepare for a battle, anticipating the enemy’s strategies. Encourage ourselves with God’s promises. Pray to God for help.
Jesus, we have no hope of conquering the enemy without you. But in you, we are victorious!
Terri