The Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord’s. (1 Sam. 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 Chron. 20:15)
Heavenly Father, we love it when you claim dibs on things we don’t really want anyway. We’re more than happy to sign over our battles to you. Whether it’s a mere skirmish or an all-out assault, the war is yours. Not as disengaged pacifists, but as fully engaged worshipers, you’re calling us to wait upon you, and behold your salvation. Help us, Lord.
We’re often little David’s facing various Goliaths, or like Peter pulling out his Swiss Army Knife against those who came to arrest you (Jn. 18:10-11). But with you, we will not be afraid. Fear and discouragement, panic and hiding, are not the order of the day; faith, peace, and hope are. Give us the faith pebbles we need, and call down angels when you must.
When events in national or world history fuel our worry—when it seems like meanness and madness will triumph, let us hear the calming laughter of heaven. Let us see more of Jesus—your beloved Son, our perfect Savior, and reigning King. Show us the empty tomb and occupied throne of heaven, and it will shut up our anxieties (Ps. 2; Rev. 4).
When we’re under attack by the seducer, accuser, and condemner of the brethren, once again let us see Jesus—the author and perfecter of our faith; and our “wisdom, righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:30-31; Rom. 8:1).
When we get pulled into petty fights—in our marriages or workplace, churches or circle of friends, center us quickly with the gospel and bring us back to faith expressing itself in love (Gal. 5:6).
When we’re in the presence of evil, and dangerously broken people, keep us calm and rooted in the gospel. Some of these conflicts require extraordinary wisdom. When our divided hearts wage war inside of us, come to us in the storm, Jesus. Make peace and be our peace. So very Amen we pray, in your loving and triumphant name.