2 Maccabees, 8
34. The thrice-accursed Nicanor, who had brought the thousand merchants to buy the Jews,
34. The thrice-accursed Nicanor, who had brought the thousand merchants to buy the Jews,
2 Maccabees 8 narrates the battle of the Maccabees against Nicanor, general of King Antiochus Epiphanius, and the subsequent victory of the Jews. Some topics covered in the chapter include the courage and faith of the Macabees, the war strategy and the divine help they receive. Here are five verses related to these themes:
2 Maccabees 8:18: "And invoking the Lord of the worlds, who without weapons falls for power before those who have confidence in their protection, they overthrew enemies." This verse highlights the importance of trust in God for victory in war, something the Maccabees demonstrated throughout the struggle against the selains.
Psalm 20:7: "Some trust cars and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." This psalm reinforces the idea that trust in God is more important than confidence in weapons or human strategies.
Proverbs 21:31: "The horse is prepared for battle day, but victory comes from the Lord." This proverb stresses that while the preparation for war is important, victory is finally attributed to God.
1 Corinthians 15:57: "But thank God, who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." This verse emphasizes that victory is given by God through Christ, which is the source of Christians' strength and courage.
Ephesians 6:10: "Finally, strengthen you in the Lord and in the strength of your power." This verse encourages Christians to strengthen themselves in God and their strength, just as the Macabees did during the battle against Nicanor.
“Cuide de estar sempre em estado de graça.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina