Topical Encyclopedia Context and Background:Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigned during a time of both spiritual reform and military challenges. His reign is noted for his efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh and to rid the land of idolatry. The narrative of Jehoshaphat's prayer before battle is found in 2 Chronicles 20, a chapter that highlights his reliance on God in the face of overwhelming odds. The Threat: The account begins with a formidable alliance of enemies—Moabites, Ammonites, and some Meunites—coming against Judah. The news of this vast army alarmed Jehoshaphat, prompting him to seek divine guidance. The threat was not just a military challenge but a test of faith for the king and his people. Jehoshaphat's Response: Jehoshaphat's immediate reaction was to turn to God in prayer, demonstrating his deep trust in divine intervention. He proclaimed a fast throughout Judah, gathering the people to seek the Lord's help. This act of national humility and dependence on God is a significant aspect of Jehoshaphat's leadership. The Prayer: Jehoshaphat's prayer, recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:5-12, is a model of faith and reliance on God's past faithfulness and promises. Standing in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem at the house of the Lord, Jehoshaphat begins by acknowledging God's sovereignty: "O LORD, God of our fathers, are You not the God who is in heaven? And do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand, and no one can stand against You" (2 Chronicles 20:6). He recalls God's past deeds and the covenantal promises made to Abraham, emphasizing that the land was given to the descendants of Abraham, God's friend. Jehoshaphat's prayer is both a reminder to the people of God's past deliverance and a plea for present help. Dependence on God: The king's prayer culminates in a profound expression of dependence: "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12). This statement captures the essence of Jehoshaphat's faith, acknowledging human weakness and the necessity of divine intervention. Divine Response: In response to Jehoshaphat's prayer, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jahaziel, a Levite, who delivers God's message of assurance: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15). This divine promise reassures the people of Judah that God will fight on their behalf. Outcome: Following God's instructions, Jehoshaphat and his people go out to meet the enemy, not with weapons, but with songs of praise. As they begin to sing and praise, the Lord sets ambushes against the enemy forces, leading to their defeat. The victory is a testament to the power of prayer and faith in God's deliverance. Significance: Jehoshaphat's prayer before battle is a powerful example of seeking God's guidance and intervention in times of crisis. It underscores the importance of humility, faith, and reliance on God's promises. This narrative serves as an enduring reminder of the spiritual principle that the battles faced by God's people are ultimately His to fight. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 20:3-12And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. Nave's Topical Index Library Jehoshaphat Chronicles A Strange Battle Jehoram Succeeds Jehoshaphat; How Joram, his Namesake, King of ... "We have no Might. " 2 Chron. xx. 12 Self-Destruction National Apostasy Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount The Sound in the Mulberry Trees The Means of Grace Resources Who was Gideon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Jehovah-Nissi? | GotQuestions.org Who was Joshua in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Battle: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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