When the Battle Begins Before You Even Move

by Torrie Slaughter

Monday, December 1, 2025

Psalm 120 opens the Songs of Ascents with a cry that every weary believer understands: “Lord, I’m trying to walk toward You…but the warfare started before I even left my house.” This psalm is the starting point for the pilgrim’s journey—an honest acknowledgment that spiritual pressure often increases the moment we decide to pursue God more intentionally.

When Distress Becomes a Signal, Not a Setback

“I call on the Lord in my distress, and He answers me.” (Psalm 120:1)
The first step in rising as a warrior isn’t strength—it’s surrender. The psalmist cries out not because he is weak, but because he knows where true help comes from. In seasons when the enemy fights harder, prayer becomes the doorway to strength, clarity, and divine intervention. God hears. God responds. God moves.

When Deception Tries to Drain Your Courage

“Save me, Lord, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues.” (Psalm 120:2)
Spiritual warfare often begins with words—accusations, misunderstandings, false narratives, internal lies whispered to the heart. The psalmist doesn’t pretend the deception isn’t real; he brings it straight to God. Warriors fight best when they refuse to wrestle with shadows and instead anchor themselves in truth.

When Peace Feels Out of Reach

“I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.” (Psalm 120:7)
Sometimes you pursue peace, yet conflict surrounds you anyway. That doesn’t mean you’re out of alignment—it means you’re walking in a world that resists the light you carry. The psalmist models something powerful: choose peace even when others choose war. God sees, God keeps, and God covers.

Takeaway for the Warrior:

Psalm 120 teaches us that the battle often intensifies right at the starting line. Distress, deception, and conflict are not signs of defeat—they’re signs you’re moving in the right direction. Cry out to God, cling to truth, and keep stepping toward peace. Heaven answers the warrior who refuses to retreat.

Prayer:

Lord, when the battle rises before we even begin, remind us to cry out to You first. Deliver us from every lie, strengthen our hearts for the journey, and surround us with Your peace—even when conflict presses in. We trust Your justice, Your covering, and Your unfailing presence. Amen.