The LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD’s. 1 Sam. 17:47This 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
Dear heavenly Father, I love it when you’re selfish with things I don’t really want anyway—especially when you claim ownership of any battle into which you place us. Though, as your children, you call us into warfare and give us armor to wear (Eph. 6:10-18), it’s you we must trust as the Divine Warrior. You’re not a spectator to our conflicts, but a very present help and our great and living hope. Teach us how to do warfare this side of the finished work of Jesus.
Hallelujah! The gospel frees us from being both fretful activists and disengaged pacifists. Instead, we are to be fully engaged worshipers, beholding the salvation of the Lord. We’re never more than little David facing huge Goliaths with a handful of pebbles. But they are gospel pebbles, and 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 are not the order of the day; faith and peace are.
When we’re afraid of events in world history; when it seems like evil and terror will triumph, let us hear the laughter of heaven. Just give us a clearer vision of your already installed King, the Lord Jesus. Just give us an unobstructed view of the occupied throne of heaven, and it will shut up our fears (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. He is our wisdom, righteousness, holiness, and redemption (1 Cor. 1:30-31). We boast in Jesus, not in anything in ourselves.
When we get pulled into petty fights with brothers and sisters in Christ, slay us with the gospel and bring us back to faith expressing itself in love (Gal 5). When we’re in the presence of evil and very broken people, keep us sane and centered by the gospel. When our divided hearts wages war inside of us, come to us in the storm, Jesus, and make peace. You are the consummate Peacemaker, reigning King and returning Bridegroom. In you we will trust. We relinquish our battles to you and follow you into this day. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.
