Jehoshaphat was facing a big problem. Messengers had told him that “A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea…” His first reaction was one of fear, but then he did something that opened the way to victory. He “set himself to seek the Lord” (v3). He also called a fast throughout all Judah to which there was a huge response as people came from every city to “ask for help from the Lord”.
Jehoshaphat led the people in a powerful but humble prayer: “We have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you…” (v 12). Then came a prophetic encouragement: “Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s… you will not need to fight in this battle, position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord”. The following day as they went out in obedience to God’s word, with hearts of faith, singing “Praise the Lord, for his mercy endures forever” God did indeed fight for them and defeated all their enemies.
Be encouraged today and in the days ahead. Jehoshaphat’s God is our God, and we are a people of praise. Our very lives are a testimony of his grace, his power, and deliverance. He has called us out of darkness into his most marvelous light so that we may ‘proclaim his praises’. The past months have been a ‘battle’ for many of us, but here we are, standing together in his victory.
Praise Him! He is the Lord of Hosts – the God of armies. Psalm 46 says: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble”. Yes! Whatever the nature of your battle, he is with you and you can praise him. As Jehoshaphat prayed, the word of the Lord came to him. Fear turned to praise and praise led to victory. Let’s move forward together with “The high praises of God in our mouth and a two-edged sword (his word) in our hand” Psalm 149 v9.
Be blessed, as through Christ, God’s grace, joy, victory and peace fill your life.
Eddie.