Against All Odds

Ever feel outnumbered—that the odds were stacked against you? Perhaps you’re facing an adversary that seems impossible to overcome. All you can see is their intent to crush you. Instead of seeking God, you want to run and hide from it all.

This is how the Israelites felt in 1 Samuel 13: “Now the Philistines assembled to fight with Israel, 30,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen, and people like the sand which is on the seashore in abundance; When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait (for the people were hard-pressed), then the people hid themselves in caves, in thickets, in cliffs, in cellars, and in pits. (Verses 5-6, NASB).”

Jonathan, however, decided to seek the Lord. He told his armor bearer, “Come and let us cross over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; perhaps the LORD will work for us, for the LORD is not restrained to save by many or by few (1 Samuel 14:6).” I love that line, “the LORD is not restrained to save by many or by few.” It demonstrates such a deep trust in God to save. It shows a respect for God’s ability to do what seems impossible to us.

The armor bearer’s response is equally inspiring: “Do all that is in your heart; turn yourself, and here I am with you according to your desire (7).” This shows a loyalty to Jonathan—a desire to support whatever he chooses to do. It shows a respect for Jonathan’s character.

Jonathan’s willingness to step out and seek the Lord does lead to Israel being saved from the Philistines. It’s a reminder to us that “the LORD is not restrained to save by many or by few.” Too often we look at the numbers against us instead of turning to trust God.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. – Proverbs 3:5-6, NASB