2 Chronicles 19-23: Battle Stance

2 Chronicles 20:2-3
Amplified Bible (AMP)

It was told Jehoshaphat, A great multitude has come against you from beyond the [Dead] Sea, from Edom; and behold they are in Hazazon-tamar, which is En-gedi.

Then Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself [determinedly, as his vital need] to seek the Lord; he proclaimed a fast in all Judah.

And Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord [yearning for Him with all their desire].

I like Jehoshaphat! A great multitude is coming against Judah to annihilate it. No wonder King Jehoshaphat initially was frightened. BUT Jehoshaphat did not allow this fear to prevent him from seeking the Lord. The Amplified Bible says is well, "Then Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself [determinedly, as his vital need] to seek the Lord..."

The Free Dictionary defines vital as "necessary to the continuation of life; life-sustaining:  a vital organ; vital nutrients."

Jehoshaphat knew that the continuation of life was dependent upon the intervention of the Lord.  The release of His strength was vital to their survival!  As always, the Lord shows Himself mighty and strong, but first He takes the time to offer encouragement to the king and Judah.

2 Chronicles 20:15
Amplified Bible (AMP)

He said, Hearken, all Judah, you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you King Jehoshaphat. The Lord says this to you: Be not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.

My favorite part is the people's response to God's encouragement...WORSHIP!

2 Chronicles 20:21-22
Amplified Bible (AMP)

When he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to sing to the Lord and praise Him in their holy [priestly] garments as they went out before the army, saying, Give thanks to the Lord, for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!

And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were [self-] slaughtered;

Judah's battle stance was not cringing in fear while hiding away in a dark corner.  Judah sang and praised God giving Him thanks for His mercy and love!  They did this in front of the armed soldiers!  Wow, I'll bet that was one awesome worship service!

What does this historical story teach us today about how to face a battle of overwhelming proportions?

I believe our most effective battle stance is worship!  Worship takes the focus off the things (battles) of this world and onto the only One worthy.  Worship releases faith into the atmosphere, and faith pleases God!   If my time on earth is finished, then my heart's desire is to enter eternity singing and dancing.  If my days on earth have not yet been completed, then my worship will release me from fear.  Worship declares, "I trust God, no matter what enemy attacks." 

God will act on my behalf always! 

God will act on your behalf always!

Lord, thank You for allowing us to worship You in war and in peace!  It is our great honor to release our whole selves to Your keeping.  All for the glory of Jesus, AMEN!!!