Diligent and Dependent

“The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.”  — Proverbs 21:31

The book of Proverbs is full of practical advice as opposed to theological lessons. This specific verse gives us teachings about planning and dependence. If one is going to go into battle, it is essential to prepare. Get the horses ready, sharpen the weapons, be clear about the strategy, provide the needed armor for the soldiers, and make sure every detail is prepared. Don’t overlook anything if you have hopes of winning the war. 

At the same time, don’t forget that the victory is from the Lord. You must prepare, but you must also realize that ultimately God provides the safety, deliverance, and victory. 

This is not just for battle, this is a principle throughout the Bible. Man can plant and water, but God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:7). Man can stay awake or work hard, but God must protect and bless the efforts (Psalm 127:1). Man can pray, plan, work, and strategize, but God ultimately must work. Understanding this should compel us in two specific areas: 

1. Be diligent with what God has placed before us. The soldiers who do not prepare for battle will most certainly die. The farmer who does not prepare the fields will most certainly not have a harvest. The student who does not study will not learn nor finish his studies. The missionary who does not call will most certainly not obtain meetings or support. The missionary who does not evangelize will not see visitors come to church or people saved in ministry. A person must be diligent and faithful to do what God has placed in front of them. 

2. While an individual must work hard, he must be dependent upon God. Planning while praying works, but planning without prayer is vain. God exemplified work in creation and then told man to work (Genesis 2:2-3, 15). God told man if he doesn’t work, he shouldn’t eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10). God expects man to work, but God also expects man to understand that only He can give the increase. Man must depend upon God. Work, but realize the victory and increase come only from God. 

Are you working hard? If not, you shouldn’t expect God to bless you. If you are working hard, that’s good, but don’t forget you must recognize that only God can give the results you’re praying for and hoping for.