This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. – 2 Chronicles 20:15 NLT
In Phil Wickham’s song “Battle Belongs,” he reminds us, “When all I see is the battle, You see my victory.” When we see wars in the world or conflicts in our own personal lives, it can seem like the battle is all there is and feels like it will never end. That’s what makes the line, “So when I fight, I’ll fight on my knees,” so powerful because it takes us out of a posture of control to one of surrendering the battle to the Lord who fights for us.
In a world marked by conflicts and war, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the chaos. However, as Christians, we can find peace in understanding that our battles are ultimately the Lord’s to fight. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against people but against the spiritual forces of evil. When Jesus declared, “It is finished” on the cross, He paid the ultimate price for our victory and defeated the true enemy.
As Christians, we remember that our perspective on life and events in this world comes from a different source, the truth of God’s Word. As we are reminded of these unchanging truths, we are encouraged because we do not have to get caught up in fear or worry. Instead, we can focus on these key truths.
The True Battle: Our anchor verse, 2 Chronicles 20:15, reminds us that the battle is not ours but God’s. It’s as if the Lord stands on the frontlines of the battlefield, leading the charge against the forces of evil. Our role is to align ourselves with Him, by trusting in His perfect power.
God’s Sovereignty: God’s sovereignty is like a mighty fortress in the midst of chaos. Just as He led the Israelites through battles, He leads us today. In Psalm 103:19, we read, “The Lord has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything.” Even in the tumult of war, God’s authority remains unchallenged.
The Love of God: God’s love serves as our refuge in times of conflict. As stated in John 3:16, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave His One and only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” His love is immovable even during war, providing comfort and hope during strife.
The Peace of God: God’s peace acts as our anchor during the storm of war because He is unmovable and safe. Philippians 4:7 beautifully illustrates this: “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” It exceeds human understanding and is always available in the face of conflict and confusion.
Our Response: Recognizing the battle’s spiritual nature, we understand the importance of prayer. We can be like warriors who, through prayer, bring God’s power into the heart of the conflict. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to “pray about everything.” Through prayer, we are reminded of the ever-present peace and sovereignty of God. Take these following directions for prayer into consideration as you weigh out the sorrows and difficulties of war with the truth of God’s Word.
Prayer for Peace: In times of conflict, we must pray for peace. Just as Isaiah 2:4 prophesies, “He will settle international disputes. They will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war anymore.” Our prayers should seek the fulfillment of this future promise.
Prayer for Wisdom: We should pray for wisdom for our leaders and decision-makers, as James 1:5 advises, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.” Wisdom in decision-making during times of war is vital for advancing peace and human flourishing.
Prayer for Healing: Conflict often leaves physical and emotional wounds in its wake on both sides. James 5:16 reminds us of the power of prayer, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” Our prayers can be a source of healing and restoration for the afflicted.
Prayer for the Innocent Victims: Often the “collateral damage” in times of war is seen as children and bystanders are wounded or killed during the fighting. Isaiah 25:4 says, “But You are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat.” This verse reminds us that God sees and cares for the defenseless and that we can be used to pray the Lord’s covering over them.
Prayer for Salvation: The turmoil of war can open hearts to the message of salvation. Romans 10:9 states, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Let us pray that many will find hope in Christ amid the chaos.
Prayer for Enemies: The way of Jesus even encourages us to go the “extra mile” in the face of trouble. Fear and anger are disarmed when we pray for those who would do harm. Jesus says in Luke 6:27-28, “But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.” On the cross, Jesus cried out for the Father to forgive those who crucified Him. That must be our heart’s prayer, too.
In a world filled with conflict and war, we can find solace and hope through our faith in Christ. The battles we face are not our own, but the Lord’s. God’s sovereignty, love, and peace act as our shield and anchor in tumultuous times. Through prayer, we can be instruments of peace, wisdom, healing, and salvation, even during war.
Father, we acknowledge that our battles are Yours, and we find comfort in Your sovereignty. Guide us to be agents of Your peace and understanding in times of global or personal conflict. May Your love and peace prevail, even amid chaos. In Jesus’ name, we pray, amen.
