The Philistine Lords — When God Fights Without Israel. Sometimes God defends His own name without anyone’s help. After the defeat at Ebenezer and the death of Eli’s sons, the Ark of the Covenant fell into Philistine hands. What appeared to be Israel’s ultimate humiliation became the theater of God’s unstoppable glory. Even in exile, the Lord proved He doesn’t need an army to win—He only needs to be present.