Preparation and God's Blessings

DAILY BIBLE READING:

Job 12:1–15:35 
1 Corinthians 15:29-58 
Psalm 39:1-13 
Proverbs 21:30-31

TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

Proverbs 21:31 (NLT) "The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD."

REFLECTIONS ON TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

Just as a horse was prepared for battle, so we must prepare for this day if we have any expectation of accomplishing some worthy goals and achieving any victories.

Yet, our preparation does not guarantee success. Our preparation only puts us in a position where we can pray for victory but it does not guarantee us the victory. As the above verse states, "Victory belongs to the LORD."

Just as a farmer would be foolish to pray for a massive harvest if he didn't plant, so would a warrior be a fool who prayed for a victory if he didn't prepare for the battle. It would also be foolish of us to pray for victory this day if we don't prepare. But, just as the farmer and warrior depend upon the Lord to bless their efforts, so must we rely upon the Lord for this day's potential victories.

Essentially, its a partnership. Do your part and God will do His part. But, ultimately, if there is any success, its not because of our preparation - it's because of the Lord's blessings upon our preparation. 

It would only make sense, then, to end this day with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving.