The word “banner” means flag or ensign. Flags are used as symbols to represent countries and serve as rallying points in battles.

In Exodus 17:8-16, the children of Israel met with an enemy (Amalek) in battle for the first time, but they were not trained soldiers while the Amalekites were trained in war. The Lord knew it was the right time for the children of Israel to go through this battle. Likewise, the Lord knows when it is the right time for us to fight our spiritual battles. “Jehovah-nissi” (Exod 17:15, “the Lord is my banner”) means that the Lord will fight for us. This is the theme of this passage. It also gives us hope and comfort.

1.  The need for the banner (Exod 17:8-10). The enemies were experienced soldiers, but the children of Israel had been slaves in Egypt, and thus were not fit and were inexperienced. They were not equipped for battle. We have our spiritual battles to fight today, and we cannot fight these battles without the Lord as our Banner. We must be on the Lord’s side. If we are on the side of truth, the Lord will fight for us.

2.   The unfurling of the banner (Exod 17:11-13). Moses had to lift up the rod of God in order to prevail against the Amalekites. Moses’ rod was a symbol of God’s authority and presence. The lifting of the rod represented the trust the people had in the Lord. We too need to trust God in our battles. Just as Joshua had to take up arms, we cannot fight our spiritual battles without taking action. The banner must always be unfurled and lifted up, not only at the start or when we are desperate. And we must not let weariness set in. We are not to make excuses not to serve God or fight the battle.

3.   The memorial of the banner (Exod 17:14-16). The children of Israel must remember the goodness of God in victory. The Lord helped them in past victories and He will continue to help them in the future. Are we forgetful of God’s providence and faithfulness? We must be more sensitive to God’s blessings as we mature.

Today, the Lord is our banner. He has given us His Word and His Son. Look to Him, trust in Him. Always go to the Lord for encouragement and motivation as you fight your battles.