Preparing the Horse for Battle

You might wonder what this chapter has to do with anxiety and “the peace of God.” Simply put, being unprepared can cause stress and anxiety. A Christian is not called to laziness, idleness, or sloppy workmanship (Rom 12:11; Eph 4:28; 1Th 4:11; 2Th 3:10–12; 1Ti 5:4, 8, 16; cf. Pro 6:6–9; 10:26; 13:4; 15:9; 18:9; 19:15, 24; 20:4; 21:25; 22:13; 24:30–34; 26:13–16). Moreover, a Christian should exercise diligence in all areas related to the following:

1. Our Faith: We must “put on the whole armor of God” (Eph 6:10–20) so we are prepared and able to “fight the good fight of faith” and “stand firm” when “hardships,” “trials,” and “temptations” come our way (see Act 20:19; 1Co 10:13; 16:13; 2Co 6:4; Eph 6:11–14; Php 4:1; 1Th 3:8; 2Th 2:15; 1Ti 1:18; 6:12; 2Ti 2:3, 9;1Pe 1:6; 5:12; Jas 1:2–4; Luk 11:4, 22:40; 2Pe 2:9), and also in
2. Our Talents: We must be a wise steward of the resources, talents, and abilities God has given us (Mat 25:14–30; Rom 12:3–8; 1Co 12:1–31; 14:12; 1Ti 4:14; 2Ti 1:6; 1Pe 4:10–11; Act 20:35).

Remember that you are doing all things to please God, not man (Col 3:23), and God deserves and demands our very best. This includes everything we do from minor tasks all the way up to great works you may be called to perform (Eph 2:10). This also applies to every area of your life, including your job. If you need more training, new tools, or new skills, get them. Preparing also includes studying the Word, thoughtfully praying, seeking godly wisdom, and worshiping the Lord with a thankful heart—regardless of the outcome. And when you have done everything you possibly can to prepare for the task, job, or situation at hand1 and have also made your petition to the Lord in prayer (Php 4:6–7; cf. Joh 14:27; 2Th 3:16; 1Pe 5:6–7), then “the peace of God” will come over you because you will know you’ve done your best.

So, brother or sister in Christ, have you “prepared your horse for battle” (see Pro 21:31)? Note that this also includes being prepared to utilize whatever tools, gifts, and abilities God has given you (Mat 25:14–30; 1Pe 4:10; Eph 4:7–8, 11–12; Rom 12:4–8; 1Co 12:4–7; 14:12). If so, you can now trust in God for the outcome—whether it be victory or otherwise—according to His will (1Co 4:19; Jas 4:15; cf. Rom 14:7–8; Mat 6:10; 26:42).2 Amen.

CHAPTER PRAYER

Abba! Father! Thank You for offering me the gift of eternal life through Your Son, Jesus, by His blood that was shed on the cross for me. Father, help me recognize any areas in which I need to better prepare myself or others to do my work as if I’m doing it for You. Grant me all the necessary wisdom, skills, and techniques that I may need. Help me be an example to others in my work, ethics, humility, honesty, integrity, faith, and trust in You. Help me be a light to others and an example of Your Son here on earth to the very best of my ability. I pray everything through Your Son. Amen.