Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and begged the LORD for guidance. He also ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting. (2 Chronicles 20:3,4 NLT)

Read: 2 Chronicles 19, 2 Chronicles 20, Romans 10:14-21, Romans 11:1-12, Psalms 21:1-13, Proverbs 20:4-6

Relate: Life can throw some terrifying things our way: lost jobs, major illnesses, and failing marriages are just a few. Jehoshaphat received news that his kingdom was in danger, and his first response we to turn to the LORD. He also made everyone else in the kingdom fast. This was no cursory request. The entire kingdom gathered together to call on God. The rest of life came to a stand still, and all focus was placed on seeking God’s guidance.

React: When I face problems I tend to address it 90% on my own and 10% by calling on God. In fact, I might be too liberal with a 10% estimate. Reading 2 Chronicles reminds me of who is really in control. I think I am afraid to stop everything because I think it will all crumble if I am not holding it together, which is ridiculous. Who has more power: God or me? Yeah… It’s not me.

All of Judah and Jerusalem gathered and recognized the power of God in the middle of their terrifying situation. God came through in a way no human ever could. I am in awe of God’s ability to provide, heal, and restore. He does the work we can never do. Next time life throws something terrifying my way, I will not be afraid. My first response will be to call on God because his power is greater than any other.

Respond:

God I am in awe of you. You are beyond anything we can comprehend or imagine. I thank you that you are concerned with our lives, and that you do not leave us dependent on our limited strength. I ask you to step into the terrifying situations we face in our lives today. I pray for your presence and your power to take control. We need you. Thank you. Amen.