The Banner Before Us

Moses built an altar and called it The LORD is my Banner. He said, “For hands were lifted up to the throne of the LORD. The LORD will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation.”

Exodus 17:15-16

The whole Israelite community set out from the Desert of Sin, traveling from place to place. When they camped at Rephidim there was no water, so they began to grumble and complain to Moses: “Why did you bring us out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?” (Exodus 17:3)

In utter frustration, Moses asks God what he should do as the Israelites were prepared to stone him! God tells Moses to walk on ahead of the people and strike the rock at Mount Horeb and when he did so, the water came forth.

After this experience, the Amalekites attacked the Israelites. Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill, and Moses took the staff that God had given him. As long as he held the staff up, there was victory but his hands grew tired. Aaron and Hur held up his hands so that the battle could be brought to final victory. Moses built an altar and called it “The Lord is my Banner” (Jehovah Nissi).

Throughout the Scriptures, we see Jehovah Nissi go before the men and women of God to ensure victory. Sometimes in the battle we need others alongside us to hold up our hands as we tire from the struggles of life. Jehovah Nissi goes before you as you face your trials, and God sends friends to hold you up. We must remember that there is no battle that He hasn’t prepared you for, and there are always friends who will help you along the way.

Heavenly Father,

Sometimes I feel so alone in my struggles. Thank you for reminding me that You are always there as Jehovah Nissi, my Banner – the One who goes ahead of me to bring me victory. Thank you for the Christian friends that You send along the way to help me to fight the battle.

In Jesus’ name, Amen