Topical Bible: Thankfulness: To God of Jehoshaphat's Army

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◄ Thankfulness: To God of Jehoshaphat's Army ►

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The account of Jehoshaphat's army expressing thankfulness to God is a profound example of faith and divine intervention in the Old Testament. This narrative is primarily found in 2 Chronicles 20, where King Jehoshaphat of Judah faces a formidable coalition of enemies. The Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites come to wage war against him, creating a situation that seems insurmountable by human standards.

Upon hearing the news of the impending attack, Jehoshaphat is alarmed but turns to seek the Lord. He proclaims a fast throughout Judah, and the people gather to seek help from the Lord. Jehoshaphat stands in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem at the temple of the Lord and prays, acknowledging God's sovereignty and past deliverances. He appeals to God's covenant with Abraham and the promises made to Israel, expressing trust in God's power and justice.

In response to their prayers, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Jahaziel, a Levite, who delivers a prophetic 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). Jahaziel instructs them to march against the enemy but assures them that they will not need to fight, as God will deliver them.

Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah respond with worship and praise. The king appoints singers to go before the army, singing and praising the Lord with the words, "Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever" (2 Chronicles 20:21). This act of thankfulness and faith is pivotal, as it demonstrates their trust in God's promise and power.

As they begin to sing and praise, the Lord sets ambushes against the enemy armies, causing them to turn on each other. By the time Jehoshaphat's army arrives at the battlefield, they find only dead bodies, and not a single enemy soldier has escaped. The victory is complete, and it is achieved without Judah having to engage in combat.

The aftermath of this miraculous deliverance is marked by further expressions of gratitude. Jehoshaphat and his people gather the plunder, which is so abundant that it takes three days to collect. On the fourth day, they assemble in the Valley of Berakah, which means "blessing," to praise the Lord. This valley is named in remembrance of the thanksgiving offered to God for His deliverance.

The account of Jehoshaphat's army is a testament to the power of thankfulness and faith in God's promises. It highlights the importance of seeking God in times of trouble, trusting in His word, and expressing gratitude even before the fulfillment of His promises. The narrative underscores the belief that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, capable of turning dire situations into opportunities for His glory and their blessing.

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2 Chronicles 20:27,28
Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; for the LORD had made them to rejoice over their enemies.
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