Going through tough times ... read on ...

When your are faced with an unexpected challenge in life, what's the first thing you do? Grab your electronic device and post on Facebook? Phone your best friend and have a pity party? Mope around, feeling sorry for yourself?

2 Chronicles 20 lays out a good model to follow when we hear bad news. We are encouraged as we see evidence throughout this chapter of how the Lord:

... hears our prayers

... fights our battles on our behalf

... instructs us how we should respond 

...  is for us

Here's how the story goes ...

• Jehoshaphat is warned that a vast army is forming to attack Judah.
• The King immediately inquires of the Lord and proclaims a fast for the land of Judah.
• The people come together and pray.
• In response, God's Spirit falls on Jahziel and encourages Judah telling them to not be afraid that He is with them.
• They all fall down and worship the Lord.
• The King appoints men to sing and praise the Lord going into battle!
• The Lord sets ambushes for the invaders and by the time Judah arrive at the battlefields they have all killed each other - what a mighty God we serve!
• The King and all the men of Judah return to Jerusalem joyfully and went to the temple.
• The fear of God came on all the surrounding kingdoms when they heard how the Lord had defeated the enemies of Israel.
• The kingdom of Jehoshaphat live peacefully for God had given him rest on every side.
• Jehoshaphat reigns over Judah for 25 years.
• HOWEVER
• Not all high places are removed.
• The king again makes an alliance with wicked kings
• Consequently the Lord destroys the fleet of ships and they were not able to set sail to trade.

How can we apply what we have read to our situation?

1. When bad times strike, infidelity, death, loss of a job, financial loss, recalcitrant children  - turn FIRST to the Lord and seek His counsel.
2. FIX your eyes and your heart on the Lord when you are going through tough times.
3. We can do NOTHING in our own strength - close ranks, lean into the Lord through strong prayer, praise, worship, fasting and thanks.
4. Trust in the Lord to FIGHT on your behalf, have courage and faith in God's all knowing plan.
5. THANK the Lord for his mercy, grace and loving kindness when you come out the other side.
6. Learn from PAST mistakes - remove the 'high places' whatever they may be.
7. CHOOSE your circle of friends and allies well.

Think on this truth during tough times ...

" ...Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army.

For the battle is not yours, but God's." (vs15b)