During biblical times, God often spoke His word through prophets in the form of prophecies. Prophecies can have a mysterious connotation and at times very figurative language, but understanding them and their fulfillment are foundational to our faith. A prophecy in simplest terms is God’s word and God’s promises for and about the future. Here in his letter to Timothy, Paul highlights an important truth regarding prophecies and God’s word: “by recalling them you may fight the battle well”.

What is the battle that we fight? Paul explains in Ephesians 6:12, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” He goes on to describe the full armor of God that we must put on for this spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:13-17).

In order to “recall” something, we must first know it. We must first know God’s promises, the prophecies. If we do not know God’s word, how can we fight the battle? How can we defend ourselves against the fiery darts of the enemy, if we do not have knowledge and faith in His word to shield us? How can we fight for the sanctity of marriage, if we do not know what God says about marriage? (Genesis 2:24, Hebrews 13:4, Ephesians 5:22-33) How can we protect our children from attacks on their identity, if we do not know God’s word on our identity in Christ? (2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 3:26-27, Colossians 3) God spoke bluntly about this through the prophet Hosea in Hosea 4:6.

We must not just read God’s word, we must understand it, lest we be led astray by false teaching and false prophecy (Hebrews 5:14). God warns about the consequences of disobedience (not listening to His word) and false prophecy (lies adding to or subtracting from His word) all throughout the Old and New Testament. (Deuteronomy 18:19-20)

So why does God tell us beforehand what will happen and why does He often use figurative language?

To distinguish truth (God’s words, God’s promises) from lies (Satan’s words, false prophecy) Deuteronomy 18:21-22.

 

To confuse the enemy about His plans

In 1 Corinthians 2:7-8, Paul says “No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”

To strengthen our faith

Jesus said, “I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.” (John 14:29)

It is therefore our command to keep with God’s word that He has promised for our lives, that we may fight our daily spiritual battles in victory and to know, when the battle is won and the prophecy is fulfilled, that His word is true and His word is truth.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the power and truth of Your Word. Thank You for the promises and prophecies You’ve spoken over our lives, both in Scripture and through Your Spirit. Help us to remember and cling to them when the battle feels intense. Teach us to discern Your voice amidst the noise, to recognize the truth, and to reject every lie of the enemy. Strengthen our hearts and sharpen our minds with Your Word so we can stand firm in faith and fight well. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Take time this week to write down or revisit specific Scriptures or prophetic words God has spoken over your life. Meditate on them and ask God to show you how they apply to the current “battles” you’re facing. Declare them aloud in prayer and use them as your spiritual weapon, just like Paul encouraged Timothy to do. When you fight with God’s Word, you fight from a place of victory, not for it.