“After this, the Moabites and Ammonites with some of the Meunites came to wage war against Jehoshaphat.”
– 2 Chronicles 20:1
Poor Jehoshaphat. It wasn’t long after he barely escaped with his life in the battle against Ramoth-Gilead that three surrounding nations decided to come after him and attack. Because they wanted the wealth that Judah had, they sought to take advantage of his weakness and “get him” while he was down. He must have been terrified when he heard the news, because his enemies — Ammon, Moab, and Mt. Seir — all had huge armies and lots of manpower. On the contrary, his troops were demoralized and weakened from the war they just faught. It must have looked overwhelming from his perspective, yet history says that the enormous odds probably worked in the king’s favor. This is because, instead of “battening down the hatches,” forging alliances with other countries, and trying to build up his army, he simply summoned the people to pray. Understanding that their very lives were in danger and that the foe was too great to be conquered by human means, he turned all of his focus and energy to seeking the Lord’s face. Of course, God heard His cry, and He showed up big time! My friend, when obstacles look the most daunting, that’s when it’s most important to run to Jesus. Though fear tells you to polish your strategy and do everything you can to prepare, the first priority is to seek His perspective. The greatest human battles are as nothing to Him, and what He really wants is your surrendered heart. As you yield to His higher purpose, He will show up in an abundance of power, and you will see in a fresh and powerful way just how amazing and almighty He is! |
Prayer
Jesus, when the obstacles in my life seem overwhelming, help me to run to you first.
Reflection
What’s your initial reaction when you feel overloaded? Do you seek the Lord or do you try to figure it out yourself?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
I always seek the Lord. Whenever I’m feeling stressed and overwhelmed especially when it comes to helping my sister. God gives me strength and wisdom to work through it.I know that with her breathing problems.She sometimes has to sit down and rest.It is really hard for her to walk slow.I wish all at Shepherd’s Grove and Hour of Power lots of good health. blessings and happiness. To the musicians and choir. Blessings and thanks for the beautiful music and singing.To the Schuller family. I pray that God will bless them with excellent health for the rest of this year and for many more years to come. As always I remain a faithful viewer and Happy and Wholesome Student in Jesus Christ,God bless the United States of America