How to Win an Impossible Battle
Jehoshaphat was a good king. But that did not stop three powerful nations from banding together and declaring war against him. Their armies were vast. Powerful. Skilled in war. Jehoshaphat was the underdog….but God specializes in turning underdogs to Top Dogs.
What can we learn from Jehoshaphat this morning?
1. Inquire of the Lord. When news came of the impending danger, Jehoshaphat’s first response was to seek a Word from God. He called a fast and together the nation inquired of God. When trouble is pending, let our first reaction not be to “google” our problem but let us “Holly Bible” our solution; let us “Holy Spirit” wisdom.
2. Pray. Jehoshaphat declared the majesty of God and then reminded himself of God’s promises. When trials come our way, we talk to Jesus. We declare the goodness, the faithfulness of God. We stand on his promises. We pray in the Spirit. We deploy faith bombs that infiltrate the enemy’s camp and massacre his lies, his fears, his strongholds.
3. Humble ourselves. The King of Israel stood in front us his subjects and admitted he had no answer but He knew the answer would come from God. We must sometime humble ourselves and admit this problem is beyond our pay grade, will require new insight and ask God for fresh revelation. Like Jehoshaphat, we take our eyes off of the problem and put our eyes on God.
4. Do not be afraid. Face your problem head on.
5. Worship. Praise the Lord.
6. Plunder you enemy. Learn from the battle. Come out on the other side stronger, more fierce, and with greater faith. Don’t waste this battle.
Does it feel as if an army is pursuing you? Learn from Jehoshaphat. The battle is not yours but God’s. The fight is rigged. You win! You may look like an underdog but with God on your side, you are the Top Dog.
“You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’ ””
2 Chronicles 20:17 NIV