“Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
…Then all the men returned to Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat leading them, overjoyed that the Lord had given them victory over their enemies. -2 Chronicles 20:15, 27
We have been called to shine the light of Jesus into our communities and advance the Kingdom of God from within our circles of influence. Yet so often the darkness feels overwhelming, and the battle too great to fight. It’s in these times of crisis where our faith is tested. We know there is victory in Jesus, but how will we see breakthrough when our enemies tower over us?
In 2 Chronicles 20, a vast army marched against the King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Suddenly the King found himself in an extraordinary crisis. Read the full chapter to experience the whole riveting story. In the midst of his fear and confusion, King Jehoshaphat made a very wise decision. He did not put his hope in the strength of Israel’s army. Nor did he try to hire a bigger army, or run in the opposite direction. King Jehoshaphat chose to call a national fast and gather his people together to seek the Lord. Then, at the corporate assembly, the king cried out to God, declaring their powerlessness to defeat this army, and proclaiming their hope in God alone.
Absolutely no plan B. Just total dependence and trust in the Lord.
No wonder the Lord spoke such stirring words through the prophet, calling His people to march out against their enemies filled with shouts of praise. And as they did, the Lord set ambushes on their enemies, destroying each and every one of them.
What if the place of your greatest struggle is the target for your next victory, as you surrender in total dependence to Jesus and praise His name?! Choose to exalt God over your life and circumstances in the midst of the crisis, and He will get the glory as He goes before you to set ambushes on your enemies.
Your job is to seek the Lord in total surrender, and praise His name. God’s response is to fight your battle for you and declare His victory. He’s got your back.
Our God Hears,
AJ Picard