Crispads

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Proverbs, chapter 21

Today is a day for encouragement. I know people can use encouragement at all times, but I feel especially led to provide it today with the help of the book of Proverbs. High on my list of encouragement and prayer priorities is the request I mentioned on Monday, as my family friend and his daughter are facing that surgery on Friday. It is hard to preach encouragement in the face of such fear, but we must know that God is always in control.

30 There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan
that can succeed against the LORD.
31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
but victory rests with the LORD. – Proverbs 21: 30-31

God has blessed mankind with the ability to do many things. Just look at the scientific and industrial advancement that occurred from 1869 to 1969. In 1869, the crowning achievement was finishing the transcontinental railroad. In the most base terms, it was carving a path across this country. 100 years later we had advanced enough that a man was walking on the moon. In that 100 years we saw advancement than the previous several thousand.

Despite our abilities and gifts, however, we cannot succeed against God’s plans. His plans are set in stone and will not be altered by the hand of man. The best part is that this not a bad thing. As we are promised in verse 31, victory ultimately rests with Him. I don’t know what you are facing right now, but always remember that the ultimate victory rests with the Lord.

This does not erase fear and doubt. Those human constructs are the most difficult things to erase, but God is still in control even when we are afraid. It is not like He gives up because we are afraid. It is not like His plan fails if we don’t believe. It is the ultimate case of, “If you can’t beat them, join them.”

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