Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to
inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah.
20:3
Footnote: When the nation was faced with
disaster, Jehoshaphat called upon the people to get serious with God by going
without food (fasting) for a designated time. By separating themselves from the
daily routine of food preparation and eating, they could devote that extra time
to considering their sin and praying to God for help. Hunger pangs would
reinforce their feelings of penitence and remind them of their weakness and
their dependence upon God. Fasting still can be helpful today as we seek God's
will in special situations.
He said: 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. 20:15
Footnote: As the enemy bore down on Judah,
God spoke through Jahaziel: "Do not be afraid or discouraged..... For the
battle is not yours, but God's." We may not fight an enemy army but every day
we battle temptations, pressure, and "rulers........of this dark world"
(Ephesians 16:12) who want us to rebel against God. Remember, as believers, we
have God's Spirit in us. If we ask for God's help when we face struggles, God
will fight for us. And God always triumphs.
How do we let God fight for us?
1. By realizing the battle is not ours, but God's.
2. By recognizing human limitations and allowing God's strength to work
through our fears and weaknesses.
3. By making sure we are pursuing God's interests and not just our own
selfish desires.
4. By asking God for help in our daily battles.
Keep reading -- 117 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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