Simple Money, Rich LifeSample

THE BATTLE IS HIS … BUT YOU HAVE TO SHOW UP

I know firsthand how discouraging it is when you’re looking at massive debt, insufficient income, or never-ending expenses. But here’s the thing: Our God is in the business of freeing people from bondage. I know that includes the bondage of sin, but I’m convinced it also includes financial bondage—especially debt.

For the past few years, four simple words posted on my office wall have served as a constant reminder of God’s role in the challenges I face:

The battle is His.

This Bible verse is from a passage that captures well the weaving of our part and God’s part in helping us find financial freedom….

About 3,000 years ago, the people of Judah had three separate armies coming to wage war against them. They were vastly outnumbered, and they recognized their weakness: “We have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12).

Judah knew they couldn’t win this battle alone. So they turned to God.

Then the prophet Jahaziel spoke up, saying, “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! 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.’” He continued, “Tomorrow march down against them... You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah, and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you” (2 Chronicles 20:15-17).

Did you catch that? God required the army of Judah to march down to the battle line. If God was going to fight the battle for them, then why couldn’t they just sit inside the walls of the city, where it was comfortable and safe? Yes, the battle was the Lord’s, but they had to show up. The same is true of your financial situation—the battle is the Lord’s, but you have to show up.

Lord, help me to never forget that you are fighting my battles for me, but that I have to show up! Help me to be quick to obey whenever and wherever you lead me. Amen.