Circumstances can be so overwhelming to the point of wanting to give up or give in. So what are we to do with God who promises victory?

Saul has been anointed be prince over Israel, but nothing much has changed. He’s still working the farm and their enemies still threaten. Nahash and the Ammonites demand servitude, and a treaty at the cost of the right eye of the inhabitants of Jabesh. The people are prepared to accept the offer, but are given 7 days to weigh their options and weep. But Saul the Holy Spirit empowers Saul by who cuts up a pair of oxen into 12 pieces and sends them to the 12 tribes as a muster to fight back. The people in turn are empowered by the dread of the Lord, and an army of 330,000 men destroys the Ammonite army. God gives victory to Israel, who celebrates with a renewal of their commitment to the kingdom of God. This pattern of experience is repeated in our lives today. Enemies threaten us individually and as a church. We can give up and concede, give in and weep, or choose to live the life we are called to despite our circumstances. With the Spirit to empower us, we can trust that God gives victory to his people through Jesus Christ.