THE PHILISTINES
THE PHILISTINES
The Philistines came from Egypt originally. They settled in the land. They are among the nations whom the Lord left to prove Israel (see Judges 3). They are a very peculiar form of satanic opposition. They are in some respects different from the seven nations who opposed Israel when they took possession of the land. The Philistines oppress those in possession. It is a very humiliating oppression, to be in the place of blessing, and yet to be as powerless in it as if you never had possessed it; like a man a prisoner or starved in his own house, and in the midst of his property.
I think the Philistines typify very much the form of satanic opposition from which brethren suffer. Led into the truth of our heavenly position and enjoying it; growing indifferent, we are deprived of divine health and vigour to enjoy what we possess.
1 Samuel 7 sets forth the way to revive, how we can be powerful in what we possess. It is a great thing to be so really on the Lord’s side that we know that He fights for us. But we must go on and possess. It is quite wonderful how opposition melts away like the snow when the bright sun of truth confronts those who oppose it. Moses comes down from the mount and faces six hundred thousand of Israel. God was with him. “One man of you shall chase a thousand” (Joshua 23: 10). Hebron, once the place of intimidation, is now through faith the citadel, the centre of strength and support.
Blessed be God! How amazing His grace is! How He turns the dry land into water springs! He supplants the greatest defect by the greatest virtue - the thief is to become a giver; Peter, the denier, is to strengthen his brethren, to be foremost in owning Him. How much more interesting a christian’s life is than we generally imagine. “Ye shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2: 15), and the light is all acquired from Him who is the one treasure of the heart; the more I enjoy Him, the greater my joy, for He is my joy, and the more I grow in moral likeness to Him whom I enjoy. The Lord be more and more the joy of your heart! May He take possession of every chamber in your heart, then your joy will be full and your moral influence will be increased!