Preparations Positions You But Does Not Control Outcomes

Key Text: “A well prepared horse is made ready for battle but the victory belongs to the Lord.” Proverbs 21:31 TPT

Truth is preparation is important but it is not ultimate. The Passion Translation brings this out by saying the horse is well prepared and made ready for battle. That means nothing is missing on the human side. Training has been done. Effort has been applied. Wisdom has been exercised. Yet even with all that the verse still points away from the horse, and toward the Lord for victory.

This is where many believers struggle internally. We prepare well and then expect guaranteed results. When things do not go as planned we feel disappointed, frustrated or even offended at God. But Scripture never promised that preparation gives control over outcomes. It promised that God gives victory. Preparation positions you correctly but outcomes are still decided by God. Farmers plant diligently, yet they still depend on rain or they cannot produce.

This truth is freeing especially in a results driven world. God is not asking you to carry the pressure of outcomes. He asks you to be faithful, obedient and diligent. When you do your part and release the results to God you experience peace. You stop striving to control everything and start trusting the One who sees the whole picture.

Prayer and Confession
Father I release control of outcomes into your hands. I choose faithfulness over pressure and trust over anxiety. I confess that God orders my steps and gives me victory in His time.

Reflection
How do you usually react when things do not go according to plan?

Further Reading: Psalm 127:1-2, Proverbs 19:21, 1 Corinthians 3:6-7