Overconfidence

“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?