BEFORE

Troubles come into everyone’s life at some point or another. So often, we try to fight our own battles rather than trusting in the Lord. Here’s a fantastic passage from God’s Word that shows a better way!

Jehoshaphat stood before the community of Judah and Jerusalem in front of the new courtyard at the Temple of the LORD. ⁶He prayed, “O LORD, God of our ancestors, you alone are the God who is in heaven. You are ruler of all the kingdoms of the earth. You are powerful and mighty; no one can stand against you! 2 Chronicles 20:5 - 6 (NLT)

Then Jahaziel, a prophet of the Lord spoke,

He said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 2 Chronicles 20:15 (NLT)

The response of the King on hearing God’s word was to

WORSHIP…

Then King Jehoshaphat bowed low with his face to the ground. And all the people of Judah and Jerusalem did the same, worshiping the LORD. 2 Chronicles 20:18 (NLT)

Trusting that God would do what His word had foretold they sang

PRAISES OF THANKSGIVING…

After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the LORD and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the LORD; his faithful love endures forever!” 2 Chronicles 20:21 (NLT)

The faith they had in God’s word was remarkable. God rewarded their faith

PROMISE was FULIFILLED

²²At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the LORD caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. ²⁴So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, all they saw were dead bodies lying on the ground as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped. 2 Chronicles 20:22,24 (NLT)

Trust God with your battles. Listen to His word (the Bible). Worship Him and sing praises of thanksgiving BEFORE you see the results and He will reward your trust in Him.

SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD