In what ways can we seek God's guidance as Jehoshaphat did? Tracing Jehoshaphat’s Pattern of Seeking God 2 Chronicles 20 paints the backdrop: enemies advance, fear rises, and “Jehoshaphat was afraid and resolved to seek the LORD. Then he proclaimed a fast for all Judah” (v. 3). From that moment we watch step-by-step dependence on God unfold—an enduring template for us today. Set Your Heart to Seek the LORD First • 2 Chronicles 17:4: “but he sought the God of his father and walked in His commandments.” • 2 Chronicles 18:4: “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.” Practical takeaway: make God-seeking your reflex, not your last resort—start every decision, crisis, or opportunity with deliberate turning to Him. Gather in Unified Prayer • “So the people of Judah gathered to seek the LORD…” (20:4). • Matthew 18:19-20 echoes the power of agreement. Invite trusted believers to pray with you; God often clarifies His will in the context of corporate humility and shared faith. Fast to Tune Out Distractions • Jehoshaphat “proclaimed a fast” (20:3). • Fasting stills competing voices, sharpens spiritual hearing, and expresses earnest dependence (cf. Ezra 8:21). Consider periodic fasts when seeking direction on major life choices. Stand on God’s Promises in His Word • Jehoshaphat’s prayer rehearsed covenant history (20:6-9). • Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Search Scripture; claim what God has already spoken as the fixed point for present guidance. Listen for God’s Answer through His Servants • The Spirit spoke through Jahaziel (20:14-17) and Jehoshaphat told the people, “Have faith in His prophets, and you will succeed” (20:20). • Ephesians 4:11-12 reminds us God still gifts teachers and pastors for our equipping. Remain teachable; weigh counsel by the Word, but expect God to use trusted voices. Respond with Worship and Obedience • Before the battle, singers lead with praise: “Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever” (20:21). • Obedience followed worship—they marched where God directed. A grateful heart keeps guidance from becoming a mere technique; it anchors us in relationship. Maintain Ongoing Dependence • 2 Chronicles 20:31 notes Jehoshaphat’s long reign—twenty-five years of continued reliance. • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” Seeking guidance is not a one-time event; it’s a lifestyle. Keep asking, keep trusting, keep adjusting course as God sheds more light. Putting It All Together 1. Begin every matter by consciously turning to the LORD. 2. Invite others to pray; consider fasting. 3. Immerse yourself in Scripture, standing on clear promises. 4. Welcome Spirit-led counsel from mature believers. 5. Move forward in worship-saturated obedience. 6. Repeat the cycle daily, confident that “The LORD will accomplish His purpose for me” (Psalm 138:8). |
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