The Banner Waves in Adversity (11/17/14)

As we took a drive on a windy day, an elderly friend of ours pointed out the American flag atop a pole in a neighbor’s yard. As she commented on how she loved that flag she stated, “Look at it blowing in the wind.” The motion of the wind had unfurled the flag, displaying the red, white and blue openly. The stars & stripes were plain to see as the outstretched banner rippled with the strong current. Despite and even because of the intensity of the wind, the flag waved proudly that day.

On a calm and peaceful day a flag will hang limp at the top of the pole. The colors blend together as the folds of the flag swirl around its base. It is when the peaceful calm is disrupted by the force of the wind, that the shapes and color which represent our country are most clearly seen. In the midst of the storm that banner can be clearly observed.

One of the compound names for God found in Scripture is Jehovah Nissi, which means ‘The Lord Our Banner’. This name was first noted when Joshua led the army of Israel to defeat the Amalekites. While Moses held his arms up to God, Joshua remained successful. (See Exodus 17:9 – 13) Moses built a memorial to acknowledge God in this event. “And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The Lord is my Banner;” God had been the banner of deliverance. (Exodus 17:15 AMP) The Psalmist also acknowledges God as the banner of His people. He wrote, “[But now] You have set up a banner for those who fear and worshipfully revere You [to which they may flee from the bow], a standard displayed because of the truth. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! That Your beloved ones may be delivered, save with Your right hand and answer us [or me].” (Psalm 60:4-5 AMP) This banner denotes the provision and protection of God.

Evidence of God should always be apparent in us. When everything in life is calm and peaceful God’s presence can still be seen in the life of a believer. His character is comfortingly wrapped around us. When the winds of adversity begin to blow, the banner that is Jehovah Nissi unfurls and both the believer and all around can see more of God’s attributes. We then realize how multifaceted is God’s love and design for us.

When we trust as turmoil and fear assail us, we can experience supernatural peace. “Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 AMP)

When we yield to temptation and slip into sin, we can learn of the Father’s unconditional love and forgiveness. “If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].” (1 John 1:9 AMP) 

When we feel abandoned and totally alone we will experience “A father of the fatherless and a judge and protector of the widows is God in His holy habitation.” (Psalm 68:5 AMP)

The list is unending. The more trials that come against us the more we learn of our Creator who loves us. “…Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” (Jeremiah 31:3 AMP) We will become more intimately acquainted with Jesus and experience the attributes Isaiah prophesied. “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 AMP)

Storms and high winds will come and go in our lives. For every need, Jehovah, the Great I Am, has a provision. As we endure these storms we grow closer to the Almighty. The shades of His provision will become brighter and more distinct. Like the bride in the Song of Solomon will be able to say, “He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love [for love waved as a protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near him].” (Song of Songs 2:4 AMP)

So, let the winds of life below and you will see the beauty of the fullness of the Lord unfurled in your life. Look with confidence and appreciate His beauty. His banner of love is waving over you for all to see.