READING:
One-year plan: 2 Chronicles 19-23
Two-year plan: Psalm 114-116, 1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1
———
The threat of war hung over King Jehoshaphat as he heard word that three armies had gathered to attack his people. Fear set in, and the king took steps that should help us any time we face conflict today. Though Jehoshaphat’s battles were physical, he did not separate them from God’s leading; thus, he helps us think about addressing spiritual warfare as well:
- He “resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah” (2 Chron 20:3). Prayer and fasting are always important steps to take when facing the enemy.
- He prayed an honest prayer to God — a prayer that we’re wise to pray at times: “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 on you” (2 Chron 20:12). When we don’t know what to do in battles, we simply must lock our eyes on God.
- He trusted the prophet’s words that “the battle is not yours, but God’s” (2 Chron 20:15).
- He and the people praised God “for the splendor of His holiness” (2 Chron 20:21).
In turn, God worked a miracle as the three invading armies turned on each other and destroyed one another while the choir sang! God’s people took no military action, but still they won the battle because of God’s miraculous intervention. The people rejoiced, and the nations feared God when they learned of His power.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Can you rejoice even in the battle?
PRAYER: “We praise You, God, that the battle is Yours.”
MONDAY’S READING:
One-year plan: 2 Chronicles 24-28
Two-year plan: Psalm 117-118, 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
MEMORIZATION VERSE (May 16-31)
“O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” (2 Chron 20:12)
*portions first published in 2016
