The Source Of Strength

Read: Psalm 44:4-8

I do not count on my sword to save me. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies. Psalm 44:6-7

IN WORD

A boxer can spend months, even years, preparing for a fight. He trains physically, strengthens himself mentally, works himself up emotionally, and thinks strategically. When the time comes, he draws on all his resources, knowing that it’s all up to him. His trainers and his fans won’t be in the ring with him. He’s the only one he can depend on.

We prepare for fights too—physically, mentally, emotionally, and strategically. We know our Kingdom is at war against false kingdoms, and we are on the front lines in this world. It makes sense to equip ourselves and ready ourselves for the conflict. But unlike the boxer, we can’t simply draw on all our own resources. They aren’t enough. We need help. We need a power from beyond ourselves.

One of our key strategies in preparing for spiritual battles is to learn how to rest. When we rest, we declare our own strength insufficient and lean into God’s. We fight His battles in His wisdom and His power. Yes, we’re on the front lines, but we aren’t the central characters. We represent someone altogether more powerful.

God will give us power in battles according to the source we’re depending on. If we’re depending on ourselves, He will let us fight in our own strength. If we’re depending on Him, He fights for us. It’s up to us. What we experience depends on who and what we’re relying on. And though it goes against our instincts, our greatest successes come when we declare our weakness, worship Him for His strength, and trust Him to fight.

IN DEED

Be fully present in your battles, and do whatever God says to do in them. Make your moves as He leads, but never trust your own power. Kingdom citizens win victories not only in the name of the King but also in His strength. Joshua, Gideon, David, and many more have found His battle plans to defy human logic, but they won extraordinary triumphs. Your sword may be necessary, but it isn’t enough. Emphatically declare your own dependence on Him, and trust Him to fight on your behalf.

ADDITIONAL READING: Psalm 20:7-9

When God is our strength, it is strength indeed. When our strength is our own, it is only weakness.

AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO