When trouble loomed, the first thing Jehoshaphat did was to turn his attention to God and proclaim a fast throughout the nation of Judah (2 Chron. 20:3). People came from all around to support their king in prayer (2 Chron. 20:13).
Sometimes we’re too proud to ask others to join us in praying. Jehoshaphat was a king, yet he wasn’t so self-sufficient that he wouldn’t admit his army paled in comparison to the three forces united against him. He recognized his limitations and sought divine intervention. Though Jehoshaphat reigned over his subjects, he nevertheless called on them for prayerful support.
One of the wisest things we can do in the midst of difficulty is to engage the assistance of someone who knows how to talk to God. The body of Christ depends upon cooperation. When the people of Judah began to pray, God provided a solution through a trusted prophet. Jehoshaphat was humble enough to listen and wise enough to follow His directives (2 Chron. 20:14-17). As a result, the people were saved. The advancing armies turned against each other and destroyed themselves completely. Without shooting a single arrow or drawing a sword, Judah’s forces triumphed without suffering a single casualty. Because their humble king listened, they were able to witness the Lord’s remarkable victory (2 Chron. 20:22-30).
We have to attune our ears to God’s voice in order to hear Him. Sometimes He speaks through people we would not choose to follow, and He often says things that we’re not expecting to hear. But He will provide us with solutions to our problems if we are willing to listen to Him.
Bible in a Year: Psalms 19-22
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