Over the years, kings, countries and individuals have claimed that God is on their side in some conflict or struggle. We see this all through history, and even in the events of today. Does God choose sides in these kinds of situations? Does God remain neutral in conflicts? Just how does this work?
In the first century, people from both Jewish and pagan religious backgrounds were being added to this new church of Christ followers. In their former religions, they had traditions which they observed. The question became, then, what do we do in our new faith? Jesus and the apostles (by the Holy Spirit) passed down the "traditions" to the early church, and we still have them to follow today.
We know this is one of the things which Jesus said while being crucified. We might just explain this by saying that Jesus did what He was sent by His Father to do. This of course is true, but when we look at everything which Jesus accomplished and fulfilled in His life and death, we are again in awe of God and the purposes which He achieved in His Son Jesus Christ.
Sometimes our problems in life seem overwhelming and insurmountable. Goliath of the Philistines was such a problem for Saul and Israel. They cowered in fear at this nine foot war machine. But David, the shepherd lad, had the answer. It was found in his heart, in his long-practiced skills, and in his God.
In our "throw away" society where people get new smart phones more often than a new pair of shoes, and ballplayers change teams when the wind changes direction, too many people are led to think they are replaceable also. But God has a different take on things. He knows and loves each and every person and wants each one to enjoy eternal life with Him. No one can be replaced.
