Winning

We may not wake up in the morning thinking we’re headed into battle, but in a sense, we are. Every day comes with its own challenges: the stress of work, the pull of bad habits, the temptation to cut corners, or the frustration of dealing with difficult people. That’s the human experience. Interestingly, this week’s Torah portion opens with a line that speaks directly to this reality: “When you go out to war against your enemies, and G-d will deliver them into your hand, and you will take captives.”

The Torah here isn’t just talking about military battles; it’s talking about the battles inside us. Each of us carries around both strengths and struggles. One part of us wants to be kind, patient, and purposeful. Another part whispers, “Why bother?” or “Take the easy way out.” That tug-of-war is real.

Jewish tradition calls this the clash between our higher self and our lower self—the side that seeks meaning versus the side that just wants comfort. And the Torah reminds us that this battle isn’t one-and-done. Even if you won yesterday—by staying calm in traffic, or by choosing honesty over convenience—you wake up today and the fight starts again. That’s why prayer, especially in the morning, is called by the Zohar “the time of battle.” It’s our daily chance to gather strength, get our head on straight, and prepare to face whatever comes.

Here’s a detail worth noticing: the verse doesn’t say “fight against your enemies” but “go out over your enemies.” The point is that you’re not walking into an equal match. You already have the upper hand. Deep down, your soul is stronger than your weaknesses. The moment you decide to show up, to fight instead of give in, you’re already standing above the fight.

And you don’t have to do it alone. The Torah speaks in the singular—“you”—as if addressing one person, to hint at something powerful: when Jews unite, we face life’s battles together. That’s why before praying, it’s traditional to pause and say, “I accept upon myself the mitzvah to love my fellow as myself.” It’s a reminder that we’re part of something bigger than just “me.” And when we draw strength from each other, even the hardest battles feel lighter.

Then, the verse ends with: “You will take captives.” On the surface it means victory, but on a deeper level it means you can actually turn the struggle itself into growth. The same stubborn streak that once fueled procrastination can be flipped into determination. The same fire that came out in anger can be redirected into passion for your family, your community, or your religion. The enemy’s energy becomes yours to use for good.

This is especially relevant now, in the Hebrew month of Elul, the month of reflection and preparation before the High Holidays. The very name Elul is read as an acronym: Ani l’dodi v’dodi li—“I am for my beloved, and my beloved is for me.” In other words, you take the first step by working on yourself, reconnecting, and moving in the right direction. And then you’re met with help from above. G-d gives you the strength, the opportunities, and the blessings you need to succeed.

So as we go through these days of Elul, remember that life is a daily battlefield, but one where you already hold the advantage. Every morning is a fresh start. With the support of community, with a bit of spiritual focus, and with the courage to keep trying, you’re not just stronger than your struggles—you can even turn them into stepping stones for growth. That’s not just ancient wisdom. That’s as real as your day today.