King Jehoshaphat found himself facing a vast army intent on attack. His response was pivotal; he resolved to enquire of the Lord. He then proclaimed a fast unifying the people from every town in Judah. Powerfully, he sought the Lord at the temple.

 

He proclaimed that power and might were in God’s hands and that no one could withstand Him. In supplication and expressing dependence, he appealed to God to act on their behalf. He pleaded and said that they did not know what to do, but their eyes were on God.

 

The Almighty answered – he would fight their battles for them. Jehoshaphat told the people not to be afraid or discouraged. What comfort they must have felt.

 

God was prescriptive in how they should respond. They had to march out, take up their positions and stand firm. God confirmed that he would deliver them and most importantly, that he would be with them. And they obeyed.

 

King Jehoshaphat implored the people to have faith in the Lord – affirming that they would be upheld. He also urged them to have faith in the prophets and they would be successful. Their victory that day was so incredible.

 

God set ambushes against their enemies and routed them. All the people saw were dead bodies, while the plunder took days to collect. Fittingly, they praised God for deliverance. The fear of the Lord came on the surrounding kingdoms. No one dared to attack them and there was peace.

 

King Jehoshaphat actions serve as a blueprint for us today when we feel like our world is crumbling around us. But as heartening as this is, I am challenged by this account. My own weaknesses surface.

 

Sometimes, on those dark days, I fall short and do not run to God immediately as I should. I try to work it all out on my own. I give in to fear and doubt. God’s commands don’t always seem to make sense to me and I feel stupid. What if I am wrong? Can you relate?

 

It would appear that standing firm in one’s faith is no cakewalk. You have to place your faith in God, especially when the chips are down and you do not understand.

 

Prayer: Lord, our eyes are on you. Please help us to trust you with every detail of our lives. Amen.