The French Foreign Legion is said to have a motto that reads, "If I falter, push me on. if I stumble, pick me up. If I retreat, shoot me”. This is a statement of commitment that befits all soldiers of the Lord. Its implication is clear: turning back is not an option. This is why, in the Christian armour, there is no provision for the back. 

The children of Ephraim acted out the direct opposite of what it means to be committed and courageous. Many Bible scholars have attempted to pin down the particular historic incident in the annals of the Jews that verse 9 of Psalm 78 refers to. But such details are not as important as the lessons that leap from the verse. The children of Ephraim had a most wonderful pedigree, occupied a significant spot in Israel and were reputed for gallantry. Here, they were kitted with the best armour of their day, but in the day of battle, they cowardly turned back. They lost honour and reward.

The experience of the children of Ephraim is not far from what we see in the lives of many professing believers today. They are gifted with spiritual resources necessary for an overcoming life. But in ”the day of battle" when it matters most, instead of gallantly standing up for Jesus, they yield or turn back. How did Ephraim come into such a terrible state? They had  apparently lost their moral and spiritual bearing - as reflected in the subsequent verses. Their life had become characterized by unfaithfulness and ingratitude to God who had done so much for them.

No matter how spiritually and intellectually fortified we are, if we relapse into compromise and sin, we are bound to suffer defeat. Sin weakens the very fabric of our being (Proverbs 28:1). But consistent life of holiness gives us the spine to face daunting challenges and the enemy.