2 Samuel 23:11-12 “Next in rank was Shammah son of Agee from Harar. One time the Philistines gathered at Lehi and attacked the Israelites in a field full of lentils. The Israelite army fled, but Shammah held his ground in the middle of the field and beat back the Philistines. So the Lord brought about a great victory.”

The Philistines had been a thorn in the side of Israel for a very long time. Even after being defeated, it was only a matter of time until they rebuilt their strength and once again came against God’s chosen people. This was not a “must win” battle for all we are told. There was nothing strategic about this pea patch that would somehow make it more valuable. Truth be told, the Israelites seemed more than willing to give the piece of ground to the Philistines. All, that is, except for Shammah. The story doesn’t tell us what was going through Shammah’s mind. He didn’t stop to pray or get an angelic visitor prior to the battle. Whatever was going through Shammah’s mind, it was obvious that on that day he had had his fill of running, had his fill of being bullied by the Philistines, and had his fill of defeat. On this day he would plant his feet and say “no more!” Have you ever felt like the enemy has harassed you for so long you wish you could just put an end to it? Are you weary of always being defeated?  Take courage. Plant your feet…and watch the Lord bring you a great victory! (1 John 4:4)

Pray: “Holy Lord, I am tired of living less than victorious. Our enemy harasses me and comes against me and often I fail to stand my ground. Regardless of how powerful he looks, he is no match if I stand with courage, trusting in the spirit of power that you, Father, have placed inside me. I have nothing to fear. When next the enemy comes against me, give me the heart of Shammah that I might see your power and your victory. In the mighty name of my Savior, my brother, and my dearest friend I ask it – Amen