“With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.”
2 Chronicles 32:8
The words of King Hezekiah came at a time when Judah faced the mighty army of Assyria under King Sennacherib. In nature, Judah stood no chance against such a powerful enemy. The Assyrian army relied on their “arm of flesh”—their military might, weapons, numbers, and experience in warfare. But Hezekiah reminded the people of Judah that their confidence was not in numbers or human strength. Their hope rested in the Lord, the Mighty God, who fights for His people.
This truth remains the same for us today. Life often confronts us with battles—spiritual attacks, financial struggles, health challenges, and personal trials. Our instinct may be to rely on human wisdom, connections, or resources. But the “arm of flesh” is limited; it can fail, it can grow weary, and it can be defeated. The power of our God, however, never fails. He is Almighty, all-sufficient, and ever-present to help in times of need.
The people of Judah “rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah.” In other words, they found peace and strength in the assurance of God’s presence. Likewise, when we anchor our faith in God’s Word and promises, we find rest in the midst of battle. The victory does not depend on us, but on the Mighty God who is with us.
Charge: Refuse to depend on human strength, and put your trust in the mighty God who fights for you.
Further Study: Exodus 14:14, 15:3; Deuteronomy 10:17; Psalm 46:7; Proverbs 21:31; Zephaniah 3:17; Romans 8:31.
