“You do not have to fight this battle…”

READ

Psalm 8

REFLECT

When goals are not achieved, or life turns in a way you didn’t expect – what is your response?  We have a tendency to fight.  ‘The fight in the dog’ is vital, but the dog needs to be trained when and how to fight.  The tendency to fight may make things much worse.  So, how do we know when to fight?  God says to fight with praise first.
Throughout the Bible we read stories of people finding victory by praising God.  The walls of Jericho fell with a shout of praise (Joshua 6:20).  Jehoshaphat was told, “You do not have to fight this battle. Position yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” (2 Chronicles 20:17).  And, of course the greatest victory was on the cross when Jesus refused to fight, even though He could have called thousands of angels to defend Him (Matthew 26:53).
Jesus quoted the psalmist’s words to illustrate praise is the most effective form of fighting (Matthew 21:16).  His enemies were silenced through the praise of children.  While others couldn’t see the truth in Jesus, children saw exactly who He was.  Fight with praise first, then wait on the Lord.
“You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.“ (Matthew 21:16 – NLT)

RESPOND

1.   What tends to make you want to fight, or “make things happen?”
2.   Share a time in your life when fighting made things worse.
3. How have you witnessed the benefits of praising and resting in God to provide victory?