When they’re coming for you…(1)
Some of the best stories are in the Old Testament!
In 2 Chronicles 20, there is a story about Judah’s King Jehoshaphat. The story of King Jehoshaphat’s 25-year reign glows with his devotion to the LORD. He never once fell into the pagan religion or practices that plagued neighboring Israel, and many of Judah’s kings as well. One of Jehoshaphat’s best moments came when his nation was under attack by an alliance of three powerful armies (vs.1).
A “vast army” was coming for Jehoshaphat and the nation of Judah (vs. 2).
What was Jehoshaphat’s response?
* He was afraid (vs. 3). That’s natural. Ever been afraid?
* He set his face to seek God (vs. 3) Where do you turn in times of anxiety? What’s your response to a threat?
* He asks God three powerful questions. Questions that seem to be reminding God of some things and challenging God to do some things on Judah’s behalf. Interesting…
1) “Are you not…? (vs.6 ) Jehoshaphat asks God whether or not he’s the God who is in heaven; who rules over all the kingdoms; who has power and might in his hand; the God whom no one can withstand. God is powerful.
2) “Did you not…? (vs. 7) Jehoshaphat asks God about his previous powerful acts such as driving the Canaanites out of Canaan so Israel could occupy it. In so doing, Jehoshaphat reminds God that he has worked on their behalf before – why not again? God has shown his power in times past.
3) “Will you not…? (vs. 12) Jehoshaphat asks God whether or not he will show up again on Judah’s behalf and deliver them from their enemies by “judging” their enemies. Why shouldn’t God show his power again?
Are you not…? Did you not…? Will you not…? Three good questions that don’t offend God.
* He recognized his own powerlessness to fix the situation (vs. 12). God can’t intervene for us until we have exhausted our control, manipulation, and “I-can-fix-it” attitude.
* He recognized his own ignorance about what to do (vs. 12). God cannot intervene for us until we figure out that we can’t figure out the situation.
* He fixed his eyes on God (vs. 12). He didn’t trust the weaponry of his army or the might of his nation or the strength of his kingship. He focused his entire attention upon what God alone was able to do.
* He and all the people stood before the Lord…and waited (vs 13). Standing and waiting – not my forte – but it’s often required before God will intervene on our behalf.
What or who is “coming for you” today? What will your response be?
jackpickel 