You gave me victory

You gave me victory over my accusers. You appointed me as the ruler over nations; people I don't even know now serve me. As soon as they hear of me, they submit; foreigners cringe before me. They all lose their courage and come trembling from their strongholds. Psalm 18: 43-45 NLT

I wish my dog understood these verses. She has just turned 1 year old but is still very much a puppy. She has incredible energy and confidence. We have hired a trainer and I continue to work with her each and every day. However, there is no submitting in her. Cringing? Doesn't happen. Lose her courage? Nah. Come trembling from her stronghold? Well, she has learned to leave her kennel with a bit less enthusiasm but no trembling is involved. The trainer just keeps telling me to keep up the good work.

In this psalm, no training is necessary. That is because God has given David victory. God has appointed David as the ruler. People David has never met are now serving him. David is the ruler and the conqueror because of what God has done, not what David has accomplished on his own.

Maybe I haven't done as much in relying on God when training my dog... or in other areas of my life. I am much too likely to depend on myself no matter what the issue is. Shall I give my endeavors over to God today?

God, you are the one to give victory and do the appointing. You are the one, not ourselves, who gives control and leadership. Help us to realize this today and every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2011 Amelia G. Sims