There are so many lessons to learn when we read scriptures that portray the battles that Israel encountered in the Old Testament. Kings were destroyed, land was taken, and people became captives of their enemies. Although that happened long ago, the lessons are poignant today if we pay attention to the details. Let’s look at King Jehoshaphat, for example. He was a good king who worshiped Yahweh. The devil wanted to bring chaos during Jehoshaphat’s reign. A huge army form Edom was coming to destroy Jehoshaphat and his people (2 Chronicles 20). The king was alarmed and went to the Lord in prayer. He didn’t go to the chief advisors or the priests. Jehoshaphat first asked the Lord for mercy and help so his people would not be destroyed. Next the king implored his people to fast and pray with him. If we fast and pray in our times of trouble, the Lord will give us wisdom and instructions. The people were sorely afraid of being conquered and losing all they held dear. Jehoshaphat acknowledged God’s sovereign power over all kings and all things. In humility, the king confessed that without God’s divine intervention, his people would be destroyed by their enemies. Jehovah responded to their cries for help and told them not to be afraid. El Gibhor, the mighty Warrior, said that He would fight the battle for them. Then, through a prophet, Jehoshaphat was given the battle plan, the counterattack. The army would march out and take their positions and stand firm. They were commanded not to lose hope or be fearful. We must stand in faith, like Jehoshaphat, and trust the Lord. This is wise counsel for all who are facing battles in their lives and circumstances that seem impossible. Jehoshaphat knew the vast army was at the city gates threatening destruction. The king did not surrender; he chose to trust and obey the Lord when he was most vulnerable. He sent the singers and worshipers out in front of his army. They gave thanks to the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy. The battle had not begun yet, but they were already thanking the Lord for giving them a great victory. That is how God asks us to stand in faith when everything around us seems like we will fail or fall. Our minds might not understand it, our eyes can’t see it, but the Lord declares that He will bring a counterattack against our enemies when we trust Him. Jehoshaphat and his men watched the vast army from Edom destroy each other without a single weapon being used against them. It was a supernatural victory! What rejoicing filled the city as the people gave thanks to God for defeating the enemy. He turned their sorrow into great joy. Songs of praise filled the air. Remember that God is sovereign and in control of every situation. He asks His people to trust Him with their lives. Job 37:13 states that “. . . God causes it to happen.” Whatever seems impossible to us is possible when God is fighting our battles. His counterattack gives us victory after victory. Believers have a responsibility to take a stand, to worship and to serve the Lord. Jesus is saying to His people today, “Fear not for I AM with you; do not be afraid, for I AM your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 This amazing promise is for us; God is faithful.
Are you looking for a way to dig deeper into God’s word and stand on His promises? Get Bible studies in the book of Ruth and James that will encourage you and teach you how to put your trust in God. God’s Promises for Strength is a special selection of scriptures and prayers to help you trust God in every difficulty. Go to www.waterfromtherock.org and click SHOP.
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