The process belongs to us; the outcome belongs to the Lord

Proverbs 21:31

          The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the
          LORD.

One of my favorite sayings is that "The process belongs to us; the outcome belongs to the Lord." We are told to make every provision for battle, but we know that it is not our preparation or skill that brings victory. It is the Lord bringing life to our efforts and dreams who makes all the difference.

It is good to remember that when parenting, making a sales call, or preparing for our future, we are not ultimately responsible for the fruit of our labor. The alternative to trusting God is worry, despair, and resignation. Many have given up on doing well because they cannot see the results they desire. This proverb calls us to rest secure in the Lord's victory while we do the right thing.