How can we encourage others to rely on God during their own challenges? Facing Overwhelming News 2 Chronicles 20:2: “Then some came and declared to Jehoshaphat, ‘A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the Sea, from Edom—and behold, they are now in Hazezon-tamar’ (that is, En-gedi).” • Jehoshaphat receives a literal, terrifying report: a massive coalition army is already within striking distance. • The king cannot outrun the threat; he must decide where to turn. • His immediate response (v. 3) sets the tone for everyone under his care: “Jehoshaphat was afraid, and he resolved to seek the LORD.” When friends today feel as if the enemy is already “in Hazezon-tamar,” we can help them take the same resolute turn toward God. Helping Others Shift Their Gaze from the Multitude to the Master 1. Acknowledge the reality. • Jehoshaphat did not minimize the danger. We can say, “Yes, this is hard,” echoing Romans 12:15—“Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” 2. Direct attention to God’s character. • Psalm 46:1 reminds, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” • Share stories of His faithfulness—both biblical and personal. 3. Invite them to seek the LORD first. • 2 Chronicles 20:4 shows Judah gathering “to seek help from the LORD.” • Encourage a simple step: open the Bible together, read aloud, let Scripture speak. 4. Pray aloud with them. • Jehoshaphat’s prayer (vv. 6-12) models honesty and dependence. • When we pray Scripture—e.g., Isaiah 41:10; Philippians 4:6-7—we reinforce truth and calm anxious hearts. 5. Remind them of God’s promises. • “The battle is not yours, but God’s” (v. 15). • Romans 8:28; Proverbs 3:5-6; Joshua 1:9 are concrete anchors. 6. Encourage obedience, however small. • Judah’s army still marched out (v. 20). Sometimes obedience looks like making a phone call, apologizing, or showing up to work. 7. Praise in advance. • The singers went ahead of the soldiers, declaring, “Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever” (v. 21). • Suggest creating a gratitude list before circumstances change. 8. Stand with them until God acts. • Galatians 6:2 calls us to “carry one another’s burdens.” • Send a text, bring a meal, sit in silence—presence speaks loudly. Scripture-Fueled Words That Build Courage • Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind, because he trusts in You.” • Psalm 34:4 – “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” • 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” • Hebrews 13:5 – “I will never leave you, nor will I forsake you.” Keep these verses handy; text them, write them on cards, speak them over hurting hearts. Living Testimonies Speak Loudly • Share moments when God met you in a crisis—specific dates, places, outcomes. • Point back to historical deliverances: the Red Sea (Exodus 14), David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17), Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6). These are factual events that display God’s unchanging power. The Ripple Effect of One Person’s Faith Jehoshaphat’s choice to trust God galvanized an entire nation; verse 29 records that surrounding kingdoms “heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel,” and fear of God spread. When we model reliance on the Lord, onlookers see that faith works in real time. Practical Take-Away List • Listen fully before offering advice. • Speak Scripture more than opinions. • Pray immediately, not merely promise to pray. • Follow up regularly. • Celebrate even small evidences of God’s hand. • Keep pointing forward: “Eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2). Encouragement for the Encourager The same God who defended Judah stands with you as you walk beside others. Stay in His Word, remain prayerful, and expect Him to do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). |
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