Psalm 18:2  
Prepare for conflict
    As we meditate on verse 2 of this Psalm and get a grip on the various ways in which the Lord provides, we will realise that we are being prepared for conflict!  If you look carefully at the previous lists you will see that there will be times when: -
1.     We will be empowered to defeat the enemy
2.     We will need to lie low in a rocky place that acts as a barricade
3.     We will need to be protected by battlements and fortifications
4.     We will need to “run for it” and take cover
5.     We will need the safety of a massive cliff with its caves
6.     We will need the Lord to shield us on the battlefield
7.     We will see Him in action as a triumphant, all-conquering King
8.     We will need to look out from a high place and see the enemy afar but be safe

It is noticeable too, from these descriptions, that there are occasions when we need: -
1.     To stand and fight 
2.     To lie low
3.     To be completely secure and protected from enemy actions
4.     To run away
5.     To hide
6.     To follow the Lord into conflict
7.     To stand back and watch Him at work
8.     To be vigilant and to anticipate the enemy’s tactics from a safe place.  

We are all in a spiritual battle, as we have seen, and at any moment one of these scenarios is relevant to our experience. 
1.     Is it time to stand in God’s strength and face the enemy?
2.     Is it time to stay put but to take cover for a while?
3.     Is the Lord surrounding us with His protection and we therefore have nothing to fear?
4.     Is it time to run as David did from Saul and Absalom? 
5.     Is it time to hide in the cliff caves, away from trouble?
6.     Is it time to follow the Lord into battle?
7.     Is it time to step back and let the Lord fight for us?
8.     Is it relatively peaceful but still a time of watchfulness and vigilance?

As we see evidence of the Lord’s power and protection in all of these situations, surely we will cry like David, “I love You Lord.” For HE WILL KEEP US SAFE and HE WILL GIVE US VICTORY!


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