Shmuel II Chapter 10 | "May the Lord Do as He Sees Fit"

After Yoav realizes that the battle will be difficult, he formulates a strategy and concludes with an encouraging call: “Let us be strong and remain strong for the sake of our people and the cities of our God – and may the Lord do as He sees fit” (10:12). Yoav's words convey two fundamental ideas:

On the one hand, Yoav does not rely on a miracle. He devises a strategy and motivates his people to strengthen themselves and fight to the best of their ability. Yet, on the other hand, he acknowledges that the ultimate decision does not lie with him or the efforts on the battlefield but with God. What will happen is up to Him. This does not exempt us from making an effort, but it does free us from anxiety and the feeling that everything depends solely on us. It also requires us to understand that the fruits of our labor, the praise, the gratitude, and the sense of accomplishment belong to God.

Furthermore, Yoav accepts the fact that God will do as He sees fit. Yoav’s acceptance teaches us that even when we ask God for something and even when we make an effort to achieve it, ultimately, we must trust Him. God has a plan, and He will do what He deems best. As Metzudat David explains: "And if, despite all our efforts, we do not succeed, the Lord will do what is good in His eyes, and we will accept it with love."

The Chazon Ish, in his book אמונה וביטחון, emphasizes that trust in God does not mean relying on Him to fulfill our specific needs, but rather understanding that He has reasons behind His actions and leaning on Him even during difficult times. Even if God loves us, everything ultimately depends on our actions — practical effort and spiritual improvement — while still recognizing that God will do as He sees fit.