“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They have bowed down and fallen; but we have risen and stand upright.”—Psalm 20:7–8 NKJV

In the months before the start of World War II, the consensus was that the French army was the most powerful force in the world. This was one reason some did not feel the Nazis would attack France. But after the Germans launched their assault on May 10, 1940, the world was shocked as the French forces collapsed, and France was defeated within six weeks. People everywhere wondered how this had happened. Following the war’s conclusion, the French parliament created a committee to study this issue. They concluded that one reason for the defeat was the excessive confidence the French army had in its own ability. In short, the general staff of the French army was “convinced of its infallibility.” This led to prejudices and a whole series of mistakes. The Bible warns us about this kind of misplaced confidence. We are to be careful in whom we place our trust. David wrote, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses,” but ultimately, all these people will bow down and fall. Only those who trust God will emerge victorious. As David said, “We will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Ask yourself whom you trust. How easily do you become overconfident or trust in the wrong resources or people? Learn from history. Be sure you trust in God. Be on guard against overconfidence or blindness to facts. Let Him direct you even in the smallest details.

Reflection Question: Are you tempted to be overconfident in yourself?

“Everyone who keeps on asking receives; and he who keeps on seeking finds; and to him who keeps on knocking, [the door] will be opened.”—Matthew 7:8 AMPC

God’s Word is filled with promises. We are directed to commit our needs to Him, have childlike faith, believe and trust Him completely, and know He listens and will answer. The Bible also indicates there may be times when problems might not be solved quickly (or according to our timetable or desires). Some answers may take time and persistence. But God has His own timetable for His answers. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus provided clear instructions about the importance of persistence. There are times we need to pray about a matter again and again. If there is something we need or an obstacle we need to overcome, we are encouraged to seek answers and keep on seeking. If a door needs to be opened, He told us to keep on knocking until it opens. Today, do you have a physical problem or a financial need? Do you have an important decision to make? Do you feel burdened and need guidance? No matter the severity of your need, you can call on God for answers. You may have asked before, but do not hesitate to seek Him again. Ask and keep on asking. Seek and keep on seeking. Knock and keep on knocking. Do not feel awkward about being persistent. Jesus Himself told us that persistence in prayer is key to receiving answers. Believe in Him. Keep on believing. Keep on asking.

Reflection Question: What door have you been knocking on persistently?