Jehoshaphat: Help in Distress...Continued from page 7

Jehoshaphat served God faithfully, even under distress, and was richly rewarded with peace.

CONCLUSION

In times of suffering and distress, the heroes of 2 Chronicles call us to a holy remembrance. We are not to remember our own strength or skill, but the character of God and our part in the story of the people of God. It is true that, as Christians, we are spiritual descendants of Jehoshaphat and his fighting men. Therefore, let us also allow God to fight battles in our lives that will reveal His glory to the people around us.

GOLDEN TEXT CHALLENGE

"O OUR GOD, WILT THOU NOT JUDGE THEM? FOR WE HAVE NO MIGHT AGAINST THIS GREAT COMPANY THAT COMETH AGAINST US; NEITHER KNOW WE WHAT TO DO: BUT OUR EYES ARE UPON THEE" (2 Chron. 20:12).

An enemy too strong, resources with which to resist too weak, and wisdom inadequate . . . no one wants to be found in this position. If we had to stop here, we would throw up our hands and surrender. But when we add the fourth dimension - a God who is able - we see a bright spot and hope comes alive! Feelings of helplessness and vulnerability are very uncomfortable. Not knowing what to do (and not being able to do it even if we knew) creates the ultimate despair. That is exactly what happened to Jehoshaphat—and what happens to us.

The truth of the matter is that we must come to this state before we can see the glorious intervention of God. Let us note the essential conditions, the prerequisites for God's power.

This king recognized the awesome power of his enemy. Many Christians have lost important struggles because they underestimated the power of Satan. We should not glory in his power, but neither should we play games with an Enemy that has the strength to destroy us. A quick look at Scripture and current evil in the world lets us know that we face an unrelenting foe. Let us never forget this.

This king recognized the limitations of his wisdom. None of us, regardless of our wisdom, can outsmart Satan. Our victory over him will never be gained through human strategy and wisdom.

This king recognized the fact that his strength was insufficient against any enemy so strong. I am no match for Satan and his armies. He will grind me into the dirt and will do the same to you. "Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm" (Jer. 17:5).

This king recognized the all-sufficiency of his God. He was wise in that he locked his eyes on the One who had the power to deliver and save him. If we are to win the battles of life, we must focus on Jesus and lock in the focus. Our God will deliver us!

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