“The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Pentateuch, attributed to Moses. It primarily consists of Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites, preparing them for their entry into the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 28, Moses presents blessings and curses associated with obedience or disobedience to God’s commandments.
God’s Protection:Deuteronomy 28:7 speaks of God’s promise of protection for His people. It states that when enemies rise up against them, God will cause those enemies to be defeated. The phrase “smitten before thy face” indicates that God will go before His people and fight on their behalf.
One Way, Seven Ways:The verse describes how the enemies will come out against the Israelites in one direction but will be forced to flee in multiple directions. This imagery suggests that God’s intervention will disorient and scatter the enemies, making their defeat more decisive.
Symbolic Meaning:Beyond its immediate application to the Israelites, this verse carries broader spiritual significance. It reminds us that when we face opposition or enemies in our lives, whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual, God is our ultimate source of protection and deliverance. God’s power and intervention can turn a seemingly hopeless situation around, causing our enemies to scatter in confusion.
Application:As believers, we can find encouragement and assurance in this promise. When we face challenges, adversity, or even spiritual opposition, we can trust that God is with us and will fight on our behalf. It reminds us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own, knowing that He is able to overcome any obstacle we encounter.
Obedience and Blessings:It’s essential to remember that the promise of God’s protection and victory in Deuteronomy 28:7 is linked to obedience to God’s commandments. In the preceding verses of Deuteronomy 28, Moses outlines the blessings that will come upon the Israelites if they faithfully obey God. Therefore, the promise of victory and protection is conditional upon the people’s commitment to follow God’s ways.
In summary, Deuteronomy 28:7 conveys God’s promise of protection and victory over enemies. It assures us that when we face opposition, God will fight on our behalf, causing our enemies to be defeated and flee in disarray. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and encourages us to trust in His power, obey His commandments, and seek His guidance in all circumstances.
