2 Thessalonians 3:13

Devotional Thoughts

By Gary Wilkerson

The book of Job records many questions that this suffering saint posed to his heavenly Father during his time of great tribulation. Why was he going through so much suffering? Why was his life so meaningless when it had been so fruitful and prosperous? What was the purpose in it all? God’s response to Job is creative and unique as he answers with this question: “Can you draw out Leviathan with a fishhook?” (Job 41:1). In ancient times, a leviathan was a huge sea creature, or even a serpent-like aquatic monster, and here it signifies a struggle of mythic proportions.

God is calling people to fight against the chaos and disorder that has overtaken even entire cities. This battle is weighty, deep, and exists because a man or woman of God did not stand up and say, “This is meant to be contended with. This is meant to be fought. We can’t accept this as if the leviathan has free reign without a battle.”

The Bible is filled with warfare analogies. God promises us victory, which means there is something to be conquered — and triumph means there is a potential for defeat. But we must be prepared to wage serious battle, armed with the proper equipment. “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able … to stand” (Ephesians 6:13).

You may have a leviathan in your life, whether in your own heart and mind, or in your family. You believe God for a miracle but you get weary of the fight and do not know how to prevail. When you are weary, don’t give up; when you get bloodied, don’t give up; when you get discouraged, don’t give up. And if you get knocked down, don’t stay down — but press on in the power of his might. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6).

The Lord is mighty in battle and no darkness of hell can stand against him. How blessed to know that the Holy Spirit dwells in you and you are not alone — so stand strong in the Lord!