I love the way the Bible gets right to the point and doesn't gloss over or avoid the struggles of the very human characters in God's story. That is what makes it so relatable to our own lives.
Jehoshaphat was king of Judah and a large enemy army came against him and his people. The Bible tells us that this godly king was "alarmed". We might say he was scared to death or worried sick about what he was facing. His way of dealing with it is spelled out in 2 Chronicles 20:3 - "Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord. . ." He took his fears and helplessness directly to God in prayer and he confessed to God "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"(my emphasis)(2 Chron 20:12). In answer to his prayer, God sent encouragement to the king through one of His prophets, Jahaziel, who speaking for God, told Jehoshaphat, "Don't be afraid or discouraged. . .stand firm. . .and the Lord will be with you."
What are you facing today or tomorrow? What is coming or has come against you that has left you feeling helpless and weak? Be encouraged today. Turn your eyes to the Lord and lay it all on Him. Stand firm in your willingness to trust Him and you can be sure that He will be with you.
Perhaps someone needs you to be their Jahaziel and give them a gentle reminder of God's love for them and His willingness to walk with them through whatever they face. We all need encouragement because we all face forces that seem overwhelming. I thank God that He has a history of being with His loved ones in their times of bewilderment and weakness and I can count on Him today.
No comments:
Post a Comment