Trusting in Chariots
"Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in
the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but
do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the LORD" (Isa 31:1).
It is human nature to want to use whatever means available to us to succeed.
However, a conflict arises when we place our total trust in ourselves instead of
God. The idea of maintaining a proper balance between trust and obedience to God
versus placing an over dependence upon our natural skill and resources has
created problems since Genesis. We are prone to build strong defenses through
our natural gifts to avoid failure and use all of our might to be successful in
our endeavors. However, this can often be done at the expense of the
supernatural in our lives. When it comes to receiving from God, it is important
we don't make the same mistake Moses made when God told him to speak to the rock
in order to receive water for the people. Instead, He struck the rock and failed
to enter the Promised Land. The people of Israel often fell back to trusting in
their own abilities and God had to send a reproof into their lives.
How do we avoid the trap and maintain a proper balance between the natural and
the spiritual? The rule of thumb is to submit every activity to God and use your
skill as God directs you. Be sensitive to God's leading in all your activities.
Avoid trying to build resources for the sake of insulating yourself against
calamity which is rooted in fear.
Finally, follow Solomon's advice: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and
lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he
will make your paths straight" (Prov 3:5-6).
- Pastor D. Michael Lilavois
Mt. Olive Church Of God In Christ
403 E. Lee St. Tucson, Arizona 85705
520-884-7929
WWW.mtolivechurch.org
