| Jehoshaphat's prayer |
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So many times life takes a turn and we find ourselves up against difficult and sometimes potentially devastating circumstances. Perhaps things started out with great promise and potential but due to cicumstances beyond our control or perhaps even our own failures we find ourselves facing overwhelming odds. It is during these times of fear when the enemy seeks to destroy our faith, and if possible, dash our hopes and dreams. We find ourselves confused, anxious and totally without a clue on how to "get out" of the mess we are in. Have you ever felt this way? In 2 Chronicles the 20th chapter, Jehoshaphat was in this kind of jam. He found himself facing overwhelming odds and certain defeat. But, instead of surrendering to the enemy, Jehoshaphat did a wonderful thing. He turned to God. He prayed. Not one of those mamby pamby powerless "now I lay me down to sleep" prayers. But an intense, in your face, prayer of desperation. A gut- checking ," are you God or not", I need you now prayer! Ever been there? I sure have. Jehoshaphat arrived at some basic conclusions as he prayed. 1)You are still God 2) You still rule over everything...even the heathen. 3) You are still omnipotent. 4) No one can stand against you. 5) You brought me(us) to this place. 6) This is your house. 7) When I (we) cry out in my (our) affliction, You will hear and help. 8) I (we) will put my (our) trust in You. God's answer? Verse 15-"Be not afraid or dismayed....for the battle is not yours, but God's." Verse 17--'Ye shall not need to fight in this battle...stand ye still, and see the salvation of the Lord with you." Jehoshaphat's response? He fell on his face before the Lord worshipping! If you are in the battle of your life, marriage, ministry.....pray a Jehoshaphat prayer. You are His precious child and He is ever with you. Lean not unto your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He SHALL direct your paths. |
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