VICTORY IN THE LORD
Erin Kranz
Today's Scripture: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.” Psalm 20:7-8, ESV
Theme: We can have confidence because He brings the victory.
BATTLEGROUND
In twenty-first century America, we generally read this passage as an analogy to fit our modern lives. While we can thankfully make this connection since Scripture is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12, ESV), it’s also important to remember that David meant this quite literally back when it was written. David saw many battles in his day, and he learned the truth that, ultimately, victory rests with the Lord. We see this all throughout the Old Testament – Goliath trusted in his superior height and strength, and David defeated him through his faith in God with a tiny rock (I Samuel 17); Israel fought against Amalek in the desert, and the victory was sealed by Moses’ simple act of obedience to keep his hands raised throughout the battle (Exodus 17:8-16); the King of Syria sent an entire army of horses and chariots to destroy the prophet, Elisha, and God’s invisible army surrounded them and struck them with blindness (II Kings 6:8-23).
REALITY AND TRUST
In each of these situations, people put their trust in something other than God. They thought that they were stronger or that they knew best. But the reality was, and is, that God is greater! We may think that we have the answers or that our abilities are enough, but the truth is that nothing we have is possible without God and our circumstances can change at any moment. To have confident faith is not blind or foolish – we are embracing reality and trusting in the one, true, all-powerful God.
Make It Personal: In what areas of your life are you still trying to gain victory by your own strength? Take a moment to reflect on your mere humanity and then on the power of God.
Pray: Dear God, You are almighty and all-powerful. Help me to remember Your strength and to rely on You every single day. Thank you for loving me and for providing a way for me to be together with You in Your eternal victory one day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Proverbs 21:31, Exodus 17:8-16, II Kings 6:8-23, Matthew 7:24-27
Weekly Memory Verse: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:10-11, ESV