A Prayer about God’s Ownership of Our Battles
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 NIV)
Dear 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 me. Though you call me into warfare and give me armor to wear (Eph. 6:10–18), it’s you I must trust in as the Divine Warrior. I’m to be not a disengaged pacifist but a fully engaged worshiper, beholding the salvation of the Lord. I’m never more than David facing Goliath. But with you, I 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 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 your installed King, the Lord Jesus. Show me the occupied throne of heaven, and it will shut up my fears (Ps. 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 Cor. 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, slay us with the gospel and bring us back to faith expressing itself in love.
When I’m in the presence of evil and very broken people, keep me sane and centered by the gospel. When my divided heart wages war inside of me, come to me in the storm, Jesus, and make peace. I pray in your triumphant name.
Amen.