How can we seek God's guidance to achieve peace like Jehoshaphat's reign? Setting the Scene: Jehoshaphat’s God-Given Peace • 2 Chronicles 20:30: “Then the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.” • This rest did not come by military genius or political alliances; it flowed from wholehearted dependence on the LORD (see 2 Chronicles 17:3-4, 20:3-4). Key Truth: God Grants Peace to the Obedient Heart • Jehoshaphat removed idolatry and “his heart was devoted to the ways of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 17:6). • He sought prophetic counsel (20:14-17) and obeyed promptly, demonstrating that peace follows submission, not merely petition. • Isaiah 26:3 affirms the same pattern: “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You”. Practical Steps to Seek God’s Guidance Today 1. Set Your Face to Seek Him – Schedule non-negotiable time in Scripture and prayer (Matthew 6:6). – Fast when clarity is urgent (2 Chronicles 20:3). 2. Acknowledge His Sovereignty First – Begin prayer the way Jehoshaphat did: exalting God’s power and promises (20:6-9). 3. Admit Complete Dependence – 2 Chronicles 20:12: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” – Echo this humility; it invites divine strategy. 4. Listen for the Word of the Lord – God spoke through Jahaziel (20:14-17). – Today, He speaks through Scripture illuminated by the Spirit (John 16:13). 5. Act in Prompt Obedience – Jehoshaphat marched out singing before the answer materialized (20:20-22). – Obedience undergirds lasting peace (James 1:22-25). 6. Worship While You Wait – Praise was their battle plan (20:21). – Psalm 22:3 reminds us God “inhabits the praises of Israel.” 7. Maintain Purity of Worship – Keep idols—anything absorbing ultimate loyalty—out of the heart (1 John 5:21). Promises to Stand On • Proverbs 3:5-6 — Guidance guaranteed when we trust and acknowledge Him. • Philippians 4:6-7 — Prayerful gratitude ushers in “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.” • Psalm 37:5-7 — Commit, trust, rest; He will act. Hindrances to Watch For • Self-reliance (Jeremiah 17:5-6). • Unrepented sin (Psalm 66:18). • Divided loyalties (James 4:8). Daily “Rest on Every Side” Checklist □ I have confessed and turned from known sin. □ I have sought specific guidance in Scripture. □ I have surrendered the outcome to God’s wisdom. □ I have acted on the last clear instruction He gave. □ I have filled the day with praise, not worry. Follow this pattern and, like Jehoshaphat, you will discover that God still grants peace—and rest on every side—to those who diligently seek and obey Him. |
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