This is what the LORD says; Do not be afraid!
Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.
2 Chronicles 20:15 (NLT)
Jehoshaphat faced an alarming adversary: the combined armies of Moab, Ammon, and some of the Meunim had declared war on Judah. 2 Chronicles 3:20 tells us he was downright terrified. But instead of sharpening swords, readying troops, and consulting his best strategists, Jehoshaphat ran to the Lord. Not only did he pray for guidance, but he also ordered everyone in Judah to fast and pray.
God assured Jehoshaphat He was in control by reminding him, “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” I love those words. In fact, I’ve written them in capital letters on an index card and posted them on the bathroom mirror, where I can be reminded of God’s sovereignty before I tackle each new day.
How often I need to be reminded that God is on my side and He is in control! I know it, theoretically, yet somehow, when my back is up against a wall, I find myself wondering if God really cares about my personal struggles, my tears, and my stress-filled days.
Here’s the thing: Faith is not a one-time deal. Faith is a daily surrender, a moment-by-moment dying to self as we learn to cast our cares upon the Lord, trusting Him to fight our battles according to His plan and perfect timing.
I love the way God honored Jehoshaphat’s faith. Take a look at verse 17; “You will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the LORD’s victory He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the LORD is with you!”
If you have accepted Jesus as your LORD and Savior, then you can be certain that He is on your side and He will fight for you. Just be still and watch Him work.
Before the winds that blow do cease,
teach me to dwell within Thy calm.
Before the pain has passed in peace,
give me, my God, to sing a psalm.
Let me not lose the chance to prove
the fullness of enabling love.
O Love of God, do this for me:
maintain a constant victory.”
Poem by Amy Carmichael