Exodus 17:8-16

PRAYER BRINGS VICTORY

Keywords 17:11

As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning.

 

1. Go into battle with prayer (8-13)

After God had provided water, the Amalekites attacked the Israelite camp at Rephidim. The Israelites were all newly freed slaves with no military experience. Joshua chose some men to fight but Moses knew that only God could give them victory. He saw that this physical battle would need to be fought on a spiritual level. Moses went up on a hill and lifted up his hands as he held the staff of God. So long as his hands were up, the Israelites were winning. With Aaron and Hur’s help, Moses kept his arms up and God gave his people victory. Victory comes when we pray and support others in the spiritual battle with prayer.

 

2. The LORD is my Banner (14-16)

The Amalekites’ attack was to be remembered. Moses built an altar to commemorate the LORD’s victory in the Israelites’ first battle. Furthermore, the altar reminded the Israelites that the LORD will be against those who raise their hands against him. The LORD would punish the Amalekites in the future (Dt 25:17- 19).

 

Prayer Father, I lift my hands to you and ask for your justice and victory over your enemies. Help me to support others in their spiritual battles.

One Word Depend on the LORD in prayer