Lessons from Jehoshaphat – II

The Moabites and the Ammonites came up against Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat was afraid and sought the LORD. He proclaimed fasting all over Judea (2 Chron. 20:3). As his men marched out for battle, he told them, “Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God and you will be established; believe his prophets” (2 Chron. 20:20).

Because they humbled themselves before the LORD, the LORD fought for them. Jehoshaphat and his men did not have to fight at all. For three days, they took the spoils and went to the valley of Beracah to give thanks to the LORD. Even after they returned to Jerusalem, they came with harps and lyres and trumpets to the house of the LORD. They were overjoyed. And “The fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. And the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around” (2 Chron. 20:29-30).

We see the importance of leaders and of the need to be faithful to the LORD. Let us look at it this way:

1. The Moabites and Ammonites were mighty men, the descendants of Lot. Jehoshaphat was afraid of them. But instead of counting his men or trying to increase the number of his men, he called upon the LORD. He proclaimed fasting throughout the land. Instead of calling upon the LORD, we tend to count our money today. Let us turn to Him once again.
2. The word of the LORD came to Jahaziel who proclaimed, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not fear or be dismayed at this great multitude; for the battle is not yours but God’s. Tomorrow go down against them; they will come up by the ascent of Ziz; you will find them at the end of the valley, before the wilderness of Jeruel. This battle is not for you to fight; take your position, stand still, and see the victory of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you” (2 Chron. 20:15-17). When we are faced with difficulties, we tremble. But let us not. The battle belongs to the LORD, not us. If you try fighting the enemy, how will you win? Let the LORD fight for us.
3. Jehoshaphat also told his people not to be afraid and to believe in the LORD and His prophets. We also need to believe in the LORD and His servants. Today, we tend to think less of the uneducated, physically weak and humble Pastors, Elders and other servants of the LORD. Let us not do that.

When they defeated their enemies, they went to give thanks to the LORD. How often have we neglected to give thanks to the LORD and praise Him for all that He has done for us today? Let us remember to always give thanks to the LORD.