Friend, first can I just say how much I am appreciating reading out of the book of 2 Chronicles the account of Judah’s kings: Asa and Jehoshaphat. I feel like, for the first time, these stories carry an extra depth of meaning and relatability to my own current circumstances. Yet another example of God’s living word.
Literally there were so many things jumping out of the two chapters I read this morning that I could write about. Rarely is my mind swimming with so many ideas and yet I believe I will focus on chapter 20. I would challenge you to take the time to read the accounts of both kings and read for yourself (without my omitting verses due to time) the faithfulness and provision from God that is available to those who are walking with Him. It is absolutely remarkable.
While I do not find myself up against the attack of another nation, I do find myself and my colleagues in a battle that we feel threatened by. We simply do not have the strength or the resources to defeat the violence, brokenness, and need that has flooded into our schools. We don’t. We are outnumbered. We are not equipped. We lack the mental health facilities or placements that many of these kids need access to.
The situation is too big. For us. Not for our God.
That is why these verses continue to amaze me! Over and over I am reminded of what I have known but perhaps have forgotten. My God is greater! My God is able! My God is faithful! My God is wise. My God is available.
I love this prayer from King Jehoshaphat: “O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this enemy army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” (2 Chronicles 20:12) I am there. We are powerless. God, however, is not.
When we seek God – when we cry out to God – God shows up.
God’s response to King Jehoshaphat was: “Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” (v. 15b) Then He goes on to say, “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!” (v. 17)
Whenever God is addressing Israel or in this case Judah – He is also talking to me. Make no mistake here – these are not old promises for a people group that I am excluded from. God’s people – whether Jew or Gentile are just that: God’s people. The promises and access to God are the same. He is a Father to us all. We are His and praise be to God, He is ours!
True to His word, God took care of Jehoshaphat’s battle. But we should not be surprised. God is always true to His word.
LORD God, this battle before me is too great. There is no way that I can see to win it apart from Your intervention. LORD God, truth be told – we have no idea about how to even begin to engage in this battle except to bring it before you and lay it at your feet. Heavenly Father, we come seeking your wisdom. We come seeking your help. We come seeking your mighty hand. LORD God, would you make the impossible happen? Would you fight this battle for us? We need you. We love you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings!