Bible Society of South Africa

The best defence – 15 March 2022

By Xanthe Hancox

Se(di)ngolwa (t)sa Bibele

LUKA 14

28“Ke mang ho lona, eo ereng ha a rata ho haha tora, a sa keng a dule pele ho etsa dikgakanyo tsa ditshenyehelo, ho bona hore o na le seo a ka e qetang ka sona? 29Esere mohlomong ha a se a theile motheo, mme a hloka matla a ho e phetha, bohle ba bonang ba qala ho mo soma, 30ba re: ‘Monna enwa o qadile ho haha, empa o sitilwe ho qeta!’

LUKA 14:28-30SSO89SOBula ka mmadi wa Bibele

Both this parable and the one following it (Luke 14:31-33) about a king drawing up battle plans speak about building a strategic defence. Towers provided a lookout for watchmen to warn against an approaching enemy. Then the king could rally his troops and defend his territory.

But a half-completed building project or a foolish battle plan are both bad ideas. A wise person adds up the figures and considers the costs in whatever needs to be done.

Jesus offers a defensive tactic for success in the battles that await kingdom warriors. The strategy is a strong commitment to preparation.

The life of a disciple includes many trials and tests of faithfulness. At times we lose heart and are ready to give up. But Jesus discloses the secret of success – a decisive commitment to the Word of God.

The repeated theme in these verses is whether you are able to carry out a task. Each of us must ask, “Am I able to be his disciple?” This is a serious question. But Christ has won the victory. Because of Jesus, you and I can say, “Yes, I am able. ‘I can do all this through him who gives me strength.’” (Philippians 4:13) It takes a radical belief in the power of Christ in us to stand firm and endure.

Prayer: Lord, help me count the cost and commit to serving you. Please give me the grace to pursue the course you have given me, and in your strength, to prevail. Amen

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