"The people of Judah and Israel were as numerous as the sand on the seashore; they ate, they drank and they were happy." 1 Kings 4:20 (NIV)

God had made a great promise to Abraham, that one day his descendants would be as the sand of the seashore and that they would be blessed above all nations of the earth. Now, after many struggles and wars, the nation of Israel finds itself in the fullness of this promise. But, the fullness of this promise didn't come without many trials and battles. Solomon, as king, enjoys this prosperity and peace, but it only came after many battles and trials that his father had to fight and endure.

Many of the promises of God are only received after the battle. Sometimes we must go through the refining process before our faith is ready to receive, and other times the enemy fights tooth-and-nail to keep us away from that which God has promised. Whichever the case might be, it seldom that the promises of God come without a fight or struggle. Perhaps God has promises you something, but it seems like you're going through one fire after another. If this is you hold tight, the refining of your faith is sure to bring a great reward! Or, maybe you are in a situation where every time you turn around there is another battle. Fear not!! The devil strives against you, but if you keep fighting the fight of faith you will be victorious and you will receive all that God has promised you! God's promises are sure!! But, they often only come after trails and battles. Hold tight! Keep pushing forward! Your promise may be right around the next bend! Refuse to give up on God, and in the perfect season you will reap your reward!

"So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit." Galatians 6:9 (MSG)