It is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s. 1 Samuel 17:47
This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. 2 Chronicles 20:15
Dear Father, I love it when you’re selfish with things I don’t really want anyway… especially when you claim ownership of all our wars and battles. Though following Jesus presupposes conflict and warfare, and though you give us armor to wear (Ephesians 6:10-18), it’s YOU we must trust as the Divine Warrior. Every battle you own, you win.
Not as disengaged pacifists, but as fully engaged worshippers, we will behold the salvation of the Lord. We’re never more than a young David facing a huge Goliath, or Gideon’s tiny band of foot soldiers taking on the whole Midianite army. But with you, we will not be afraid. Whether it’s a mere skirmish or an all out assault, the battle belongs to you. Fear and discouragement, and pride and presumption are not the order of the day, humility and faith are.
When I’m afraid of events in world history—when it seems like evil and terror will triumph, let me hear the laughter of heaven. Let me see Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, already reigning over all things. Show me the occupied throne of heaven and it will shut up my fears like nothing else. (Psalm 2)
When I’m under attack by the seducer, accuser and condemner of the brethren, once again, let me see Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith. He is my wisdom, righteousness, holiness and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30-31). My boast is in Jesus, not in anything in me.
When I get pulled into petty fights with my brothers and sisters in Christ… or even in my marriage… slay each of us with the gospel and bring us back to faith expressing itself in love.
When I’m in the presence of overt and covert evil, keep me settled and centered with the grace and truth of the gospel. When my divided heart wages war inside of me, send Jesus into the storm and there will be peace.
Loving Father, all of these battles belong to you. I will resist stealing them from you. So very Amen, I pray, in Jesus’ tender and triumphant name.