Proverbs 21:31

New International Version (NIV)

The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
    but victory rests with the Lord.

Meditation

As you reflect on the countless nights spent perfecting concept papers and proposals, you understand the feeling of accomplishment. The stars seem in alignment, and you feel in control. The praise pours in, and the time for implementation arrives.

You thought no one could outwit you for the coveted award with your name inscribed on the plaque and its memorable citation.

But why is the limousine ride to the hotel so quiet? Where are the music, party, friends, and morning newspaper headlines that scream the achievements you worked for?

Did you not forget something along the way? Remember the plaque on the wall opposite your desk?

The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord (Proverbs 21:31).

It’s futile to fight without God, especially for believers in Christ. Joshua learned this lesson the hard way at Ai (Joshua 7:2-5). When the Lord fought for them, Israel triumphed at Jericho, so Ai should have been a breeze. But Joshua, without consulting the Commander of the Lord’s army (5:14), trusted the spies’ report and suffered a humiliating defeat (7:3-5).

Samson against the seduction of Delilah is another example (Judges 16:1-21). The echo of these words: But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him (20) remains a reminder to the boastful in their abilities or riches. Honesty might remind us of our humiliation, too.

Like many preachers and counselors, Proverbs 21:31 speaks to the congregation and counselees, not to them. Sadly, they lower the bar and dig in, disregarding the Lord and His desire for truth, faithfulness, and integrity for success and recognition. Any wonder scandals abound in the church these days?

Let us ask ourselves a critical question this morning: Did we forget something on our journey to the Awards Night?

However, a disappointing response should not cause you to double down in rebellion and suffer further defeats and coverups.

Like King Nebuchadnezzar, let’s lift our eyes to heaven (Daniel 4:34) and receive the mercy and grace that can realign our thinking and restore a godly perspective. Let’s not allow the world’s allure to sway our hearts away from Jesus Christ, our loving Lord, who desires the best for us.

Prayer

Father, we confess our weakness without you, Lord. Please convict us when we stubbornly look away from you in all we do. Thank you, Lord Holy Spirit, in Christ Jesus, amen.