During the time of King Jehoshaphat (approximately 860 B.C.), several armies began to invade the land of Judah. Being greatly outnumbered, Jehoshaphat called for a nation-wide time of fasting and prayer to seek guidance from God: “O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (2 Chronicles 20:12).
The king needed to formulate a plan. He was the appointed leader and responsible for the safety of his people. King Jehoshaphat’s “plan” was to place the fate of the entire nation into the hands of God. Many see such action as weakness, but it took great strength to recognize he was powerless; even greater strength to know where to turn and Whom to trust!
God answered King Jehoshaphat’s cry for help through a Levite named Jahaziel.
2 Chronicles 20:14-15
“Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel…’Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”‘”
Knowing that our battles belong to God is great comfort when we face trials which appear much bigger than anything we can handle. But there is more to the story! God didn’t tell Jehoshaphat to just sit in his tent while the battle was won. Rather, He gave specific instructions to confidently stand before the enemy.
2 Chronicles 20:16-17
“Tomorrow march down against them…{But} you will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.”
It’s inevitable that our life will contain such battles – many are facing overwhelming battles right now. And as with everything we encounter on our Christian walk, battles have a purpose. Many times the purpose of our battle is to understand a fundamental truth: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Reaching the end of our own strength is the real battle; turning to God and trusting Him for every step of our walk, and actually walking with Him every step of the way, is the real victory!
As we trust Him with all our heart and seek counsel in His presence, He will tell us where to march and where to stand. Let’s boldly follow our Lord each and every day and refuse to become discouraged. He is in absolute control…for these ARE God’s battles!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
**** Reading Plan ****
Sep 10 Isaiah 6:1-7:25; 2 Corinthians 11:16-33; Psalm 54:1-7; Proverbs 23:1-3
987.49 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1912.31 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles
Thank mr. Troxel my husband and I have been praying for you and your family during your daughters trial praising God that he does deliver his people. My husband in august had a mild stroke working daily to get him back on track is hard and taking care of the children (5 of them) is harder now then before but this was an encouraging word for me to just stand and know that this is a battle that is beyond my control. I will continue to trust and know that whatever Gods will is for him I trust him. Thank you for this ministry.
Thank you so much for your prayers and this encouragement. Kaylee is doing very well. She is strong and is having a wonderful season – I pray it will last. I pray that God will grant an extra measure of strength and peace for you and your entire family.
Your Brother,
Steve T.