2 Chronicles 20:3
Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and begged the Lord for guidance. He also ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting.
Life Lesson
Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) continues with King Jehoshapat in pursuit of obeying the Lord just as described in 2 Chronicles 17:4 & 6 which says, “He sought his father’s God and obeyed his commands instead of following the evil practices of the kingdom of Israel.” & “He was deeply committed to the ways of the Lord. He removed the pagan shrines and Asherah poles from Judah.” In fact 2 Chronicles 17:3 says, “The Lord was with Jehoshaphat because he followed the example of his father’s early years and did not worship the images of Baal.” It here wherein we see King Jehoshaphat not only ask but rather with more intensity instead beg the Lord for guidance upon learning armies of the Moabites, Ammonites and some of the Meunites declared war against him.
What comes to mind and speak deepest into my heart is how King Jehoshapat humbled himself before the Lord in prayer, total obedience, unwavering faith, complete trust and absolute submission. Moreover, what also comes to mind is how the Lords responds. How He comforts Jehoshapat by saying not to be afraid or discouraged, the battle is God’s (not his) and victory is assured without having to fight. In 2 Chronicles 20:6-9 affirms this as Jehoshapat prays, “O Lord, God of our ancestors, you alone are the God who is in heaven. You are ruler of all the kingdoms of the earth. You are powerful and mighty; no one can stand against you! O our God, did you not drive out those who lived in this land when your people Israel arrived? And did you not give this land forever to the descendants of your friend Abraham? Your people settled here and built this Temple to honor your name. They said, ‘Whenever we are faced with any calamity such as war, plague, or famine, we can come to stand in your presence before this Temple where your name is honored. We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.” Then, in 2 Chronicles 20:15 & 17 the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jahaziel and through him the Lord says “…Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” & ” But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” Soon after in complete faith, singers appointed by Jehoshapat walk ahead of Judah’s army and begin singing and praising God for His holy splendor. 2 Chronicles 20:21 says, “…they sang: Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” Amazingly at that very moment total chaos breaks out and confusion occurs as God’s promise begins to unfold. Enemies fight among themselves before the army of Judah arrive at the battlefront, without them having to lift a sword even!
Hence, my take away is remembering to be like a King Jehoshapat, a bold follower of the Lord. One whom not only remembered past accomplishments of his father and his father’s God but furthermore believed and took action through his own faith also.
Wow!!
Hey Ken thanks!
Amen…for the battle is the Lords, not ours. Thanks brother Wes. Great teaching here. Elena
Thank you sister Elena! Hope your day was great too! God bless you, Wes