Obedience in the Face of Gog's Attack

Soon, Satan's entire wicked system will be destroyed in an unprecedented "great tribulation."  (Matthew 24:21) No doubt prior and during that time, God's people will experience major tests of their faith and obedience.  For instance, the Bible tells us that Satan, in his role as "Gog of the land of Magog,"  will make an all-out attack against Jehovah's servants, mobilizing hordes that are described as "a numerous military force . . ., like clouds to cover the land."  (Ezekiel 38:2, 14-16)  outnumbered and unarmed, God's people will look to the refuge of Jehovah's pinions," which he extends to shield the obedient.

This situation reminds us of Israel's Exodus from Egypt.  After striking Egypt with ten devastating plagues, Jehovah led his people, not on the shortest route toward the Promised Land, but down to the Red Sea, where they could easily be cornered  and attacked.  From a military standpoint, that seemed a disastrous move.  If you had been there, would you have obeyed Jehovah's word through Moses and marched down to the Red Sea with full confidence, knowing that the Promised Land lay in a somewhat different location? -Exodus 14:1-4

As we read on in Exodus chapter 14, we see how Jehovah delivered his people in an awesome display of power.  How such accounts can strengthen our faith when we take the time to study and reflect  upon them!  (2 Peter 2:9) Strong faith, in turn, fortifies us to obey Jehovah, even when  his requirements seem to go contrary  to human reasoning. (Proverbs  3:5, 6) So ask yourself,  'Am i striving to build up my faith through diligent Bible study, prayer and meditation, as well as by regular association with God's people?' -Hebrews 10:24, 25; 12:1-3.

Next time: Obedience Instills Hope

The Watchtower, 2002