A Prayer about God’s Ownership of Our Battles
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
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 Jn. 4:4
Dear heavenly Father, I love it when you’re selfish with things I don’t really want anyway—especially when you claim ownership of our battles. Though you give us armor to wear (Eph. 6:10–18), it’s you we must trust in as the Divine Warrior. We’re never more than David facing Goliath; but with you, we’ll 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. Let us see your installed King, the Lord Jesus—the ruler of the kings of the earth. Give us a fresh sighting of the occupied throne of heaven (Rev. 4), and it will shut up our fears (Ps. 2).
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). Our boast is in Jesus, not in anything in us.
When we get pulled into petty fights with our brothers and sisters in Christ, slay us with the gospel and bring us back to faith expressing itself in love.
When marriage becomes a momentary battleground of two stubborn people—vying for control, ”rightness,” or self-glory, convict us by the Spirit, humble us with grace and return us to servant love.
When we’re in the presence of evil and very broken people, keep us sane and centered by the gospel. Give us wisdom and freedom to love well in the dark places.
When our divided hearts wage war inside of us, come to us in the storm, Lord Jesus, and make peace. It’s your grip of us, not our weak grasp of you, that will win this day and every day. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name. - Scotty Smith
Scotty Smith shared this a few days ago. What a relief to know our gracious Father is not only concerned about our battles but is indeed in control of them. Let us rest easy knowing He guides and directs all the events that come our way.
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