SOAP: terms of peace

S - Deuteronomy 20:2-4, 10
And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people and shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, for the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory' . . . When you draw near to a city to fight against it, offer terms of peace to it.

O - The battle is God's. He will be with us. He will give us rest. So offer peace to your enemies.

A - During the long year of ministry it seems that March-May are the toughest to stay focused and energetic about what God is doing. Usually the summer has some amazing retreats, the beginning of the school year brings new people, Christmas is always a special celebration and welcome break, and the winter months bring another chance to retreat. After all that the long stretch from March to May can be a serious test of endurance. These verses are a welcome reminder that the fight belongs to the Lord. He is the one who will come with us. He is the one who will ensure victory. He is the one that gives us a break from the fight if we have responsibilities at home, need to focus on enjoying life, want to spend time with our families, or just have been overwhelmed. With a strong reminder that God is the one working, and that he offers a break/rest for many reasons, this certainly brings a sense of security.

P - Lord I don't want to be overwhelmed. Help me trust your faithfulness to be with me and do the work. I know this security will help me extend peace, even to those who I think are my "enemies."