The Bible tells us that there will be times when heartache and hardship come our way, even though we have been serving the Lord wholeheartedly. This was the case with good King Hezekiah of Judah in Chapter 32 of Second Chronicles. Scripture says: "After all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah." (2 Chronicles 32:1 NIV) When we face adversity, it's always a good idea to ask the Lord if we have contributed to our troubles in any way. But we must keep in mind that sometimes we will come under attack because we are following God's plan for us, and Satan isn't happy about it.

With the whole Assyrian army coming against the people of Judah, Hezekiah wisely chooses to put his trust in the Lord. He tells his people: "Be strong and courageous! Don't be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!" (2 Chronicles 32:7-8 NLT) When you and I come under attack, if we will commit the battle to the Lord, and recognize that the greater power is on our side, we will find peace and reassurance in the midst of the storm.

By insulting God and threatening His people, Sennacherib hopes to disarm and dishearten the people of Judah and their king. He says: "What makes you think your God can rescue you from me? I say it again - no god of any nation or kingdom has ever yet been able to rescue his people from me or my ancestors. How much less will your God rescue you from my power!" (v. 14-15 NLT) When you and I are going through trials, Satan will try to get us to focus on those around us who have fallen and failed as a result of his relentless onslaught. If we are wise, we will claim God's promises of protection and victory, such as Psalm 91:7 (NIV) which says, "A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you."

As the battle heats up, Hezekiah recognizes his need for strength and reassurance, and he cries out to God for help. "Then King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out in prayer to God in heaven." (v. 20 NLT) The next verse reveals God's response to the faith and prayers of His servant Hezekiah. "And the Lord sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army with all its commanders and officers. So Sennacherib was forced to return home in disgrace to his own land. And when he entered the temple of his god, some of his own sons killed him there with a sword." (v. 21 NLT) Just as the Lord executed a swift and decisive victory for His people in this Bible account, you and I can count on Him to fight for us when we cooperate with His battle plan. Always remember - the greater power is on our side!

Prayer: Lord, whenever I am feeling attacked or put down in any way, help me to turn to You first. Remind me often that even the devil himself and all of his evil forces are no match for You. Don't let others' failures and defeats cause my faith in You to falter or fail. Grant me Your perspective on every challenge and trial that comes my way. Thank You that as I let You fight my battles, I will have all the help of Heaven on my side!