Not My Battle

Sometimes I presume too much.

(I know this isn't a terrier.) credit

I’m a Type A go-getter, characterized by energy, enthusiasm, and determination. Like a terrier on a pant leg, when I sink my teeth into something, I don’t let go until I succeed or exhaust myself trying.
While tenacity and perseverance are generally good qualities, sometimes I go too far. In my enthusiasm, I overstep my boundaries and engage in battles that aren’t mine to fight. 

I try to compel others to love God through the sheer force of my will and the power of my passion. I assume that every spiritual battle requires me to go to the mat and wrestle with God to force him to do what he’s already promised. In typical “works theology,” I believe if I pray, beg, and plead long and loudly enough, God will reward my efforts. But I am presumptuous and faithless when I attempt to fight battles that don’t belong to me.

So what should I do when the enemy has his sights trained on those I love? Sometimes, like the children of Israel, I must take up weapons and fight hand-to-hand (Joshua 9). Other times, I need only march around the city and claim it in Jesus’ name (Joshua 6).  

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Yet other times call me to “stand still (cease striving in my own self-effort) and see the deliverance of the Lord” (Ex. 14:13). Only quiet talks with God can discern which is which. And ultimately, every battle is the Lord’s.



“. . . they cried out to God in the battle. He heeded their prayer, because they put their trust in Him. . . . and many fell dead, because the war was God’s” (1 Chron. 5:20, 22). 

What do you care so much about that you’re unable to surrender it to God? How’s that working for you? Will you surrender it today?

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I'm SO EXCITED to be presenting a Christian Devotion Writing Workshop on Saturday, Aug. 11 at Steele Creek Church of Charlotte, N.C., sponsored by Debbie Somjak's Unfolded Hearts Ministry. Here's the scoop:

Do you have a desire to write for God, but don't know how to begin? If so, we invite you to be a part of this empowering hands-on workshop where you'll learn a step-by-step process for writing a devotion with author and speaker, Lori Hatcher.
Class space is limited. Your spot is reserved once payment is received.Please visit UHM webpage for further details and registration info.
**Registration Required, space is limited: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.  Cost $25

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