I love the story of Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles chapter 20. I distinctly remember discovering it for the first time almost 3 years ago. It was like a hidden gem that captivated my heart so deeply, I held on to the story for months, telling everyone I knew about this wonderful story.
However, it was not until recently at a conference, when the speaker spoke on it that I realized I had completely forgotten about this beautiful story.
Jehoshaphat, King of Israel, has just been informed that a vast army (consisting of three different countries) is on the verge of attacking Israel. Alarmed and afraid, Jehoshaphat decides to set his face to seek the Lord through worship and prayer.
Not only does Jehoshaphat turn to God first in the midst of great trouble, he continues to do so throughout the passage. He also calls for all of Israel to pray. God tells them to march up to the army, to trust Him, and to “not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (v.15).
Jehoshaphat calls for his army to get up early and march out to this vast army, without of course commanding the people first to praise God and worship Him as they march out to this frightening army.
How crazy is that? Can you imagine the amount of fear and anxiety you may have if you were in Jehoshaphat’s shoes? We have trouble with microscopic “trials” and yet Jehoshaphat handles these extreme circumstances by swiftly turning to and trusting God.
How often do I wish that when faced with trying situations, although alarming and frightening, I would hurry to set my eyes to seek God. Instead of running to the throne, I tend to run to the phone.
My favorite verse is when Jehoshaphat says to God in prayer, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (v. 12).
I love how Jehoshaphat responds when he arrives to face this vast army.
Through God’s mighty power and sovereignty, this vast army has indeed been overcome and Jehoshaphat and his men begin to praise and worship God. Even in the face of victory and triumph, he does not grow prideful and forget God, but remembers His faithfulness and responds appropriately- with more praise and worship.
Friend, God is in control of whatever you are facing. He is indeed, the Creator of this earth and all its people. He sees your struggles and he will protect and save His children.
But how are you responding?
Let’s be quick to turn to God, whatever the circumstance, and lets set our eyes towards Him even when we have no idea what to do. Lets be people who pray without ceasing, praise overflowing with thanksgiving, and worship unswervingly.
**Today’s post was written by Melody Aboud, author of “My Wandering Heart.” Melody has the gift of writing, yes, but she has wisdom beyond her years! Follow her at her blog – My Wandering Heart
Melody, this is one of my favorite scriptures to pray. I love you sweet girl! I pray all is well in your world. You are a treasure to your Lord’s kingdom. He will accomplish what concerns you both now and always. Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might precious daughter of the Most High God! I love you!