So That You May Know that God is the LORD

“… so that you may know that I am the LORD.” – 1 Kings 20.13, CSB

God’s stepping in to help Israel was based on his grace. King Ahab still governed Israel, leading them toward the worship of Baal. Israel was not walking in obedience to the Lord. In fact, King Ahab never turned to the Lord for help when the army of Aram came against them, threatening to “take away whatever is precious to you” (1 Kings 20.6, CSB). And yet, God initiated the rescue. But his motivation was much more than Israel’s deliverance from Aram. 

A prophet approached King Ahab of Israel and said, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Do you see this whole huge army? Watch, I am handing it over to you today so that you may know that I am the LORD.’” – 1 Kings 20.13, CSB (emphasis added)

God’s motivation was not so that Israel could be left comfortable and protected from Aram. Instead, his motivation was for King Ahab to recognize that God was the LORD. The covenant-keeping, self-existent God of all things kept his covenant with his people even while Ahab rebelled against him. God wanted Ahab to recognize and repent toward him.

God’s grace and mercy are truly amazing. And don’t get me started on trying to comprehend the faithfulness of God. “If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2.13, CSB). His invitation to us to confession and repentance is beautiful. His ability to deliver us from anything that comes our way brings us peace. But I need to remember something in the midst of all of this. God’s ways are based upon his grace and are for our good, regardless of how he decides to do his work.

The army that Ahab and Israel faced was “huge.” It was insurmountable. And is that what you’re feeling today with the “army” that you’re facing? Has that thing that seems insurmountable, whether new or something you’ve had to deal with for so long, begun to poison your soul with discouragement, stealing your joy and strangling your faith? Does it feel like that “army” is threatening to “take away whatever is precious to you”? If so, let God encourage you for a moment from his word.

Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1.9, CSB

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41.10, CSB

For I am the LORD your God, who holds your right hand, who says to you, “Do not fear, I will help you. – Isaiah 41.13, CSB

Remember: you’re not alone. The “huge” things we face are so hard. The seasons of God’s discipline and training are difficult. God knows this (Hebrews 12.11). But as I’ve faced those seasons and walked with others through those seasons over the years, I’ve seen God bring me, and them, to a deeper understanding of who he is and an awareness of his presence. His peace becomes more real as he allows the huge things to threaten. But even still, God is working. God is moving our focus off the “huge army” and placing it upon himself. He’s drawing us deeper and deeper into himself, leaving us speechless and trying to catch our breath as we are confronted with the sheer magnitude of his glory, power, and grace. 

He has you, friend. The insurmountable is God’s invitation to know he is the Lord of all. Continue to focus on him and watch the work that he will accomplish at the pace that he decides that is best for you. And hear him say, “Do you see this whole huge army? Watch, I am handing it over to you today so that you may know that I am the LORD.” 

Know that God is the LORD.