“Thus says the Lord to you: “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” 2 Chronicles 20:15b
Have you ever been in a place in life where a great multitude is coming against you? Like the enemy is coming in like a flood? Times of colossal distress where one thing seems to be happening after the other? I'm sure you can reflect on times like these or maybe you are going through a trial now. We are living in a heightened time of warfare in this last hour. But God says, “Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude of problems, struggles, and trials, for the battle is not yours, but the Lord’s.
In the book of 2 Chronicles chapter 20 we find the story of King Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat was the king of Judah and he was faced with a multitude coming against him. His kingdom was in distress because of an invasion or ambush by their enemies the Moabites, Ammonites, and others. God was with Jehoshaphat and his people and he is with you too. When the battle is the Lord’s victory is certain. Let’s look at how the victory was won.
Seek the Lord
Jehoshaphat set himself to seek the Lord. He sought God and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. They asked the Lord for help. When going through various trials we must seek the Lord in prayer, rely heavily on His Word and be attentive to the Holy Spirit’s leading for direction and guidance. We must set our hearts to seek God and His strength. When we seek Him with our whole heart we find Him and He draws near to us and comforts us on every side.
Let faith be your Armor
Believe God. Believe that when you cry out to Him in your affliction that he will save you. (2 Chronicles 2:9) When problems ambush your life trust completely in the sovereignty of God. Jehoshaphat cried out to God, “For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us, nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” Sometimes we don’t know what to do but keep God as the object of your faith. Know for sure that if God is for you, you cannot lose.
Position Yourself
“You will not need to fight this battle. Position yourself, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you.” (2 Chronicles 20:17) When in a difficult place in life it is imperative that we position ourselves in Christ. We cannot fight in our own strength. Rely solely on God’s perfect strength to pull you through. God says this battle you will not need to fight implying that some battles require movement on our part but this particular battle; stand still. Standing still is a posture of trust. You don’t have to move because you know Emmanuel (God with us) is with you and fighting for you. Do not fear and don’t get distracted by what things look like. Walk by faith and not by sight. It may look like the enemy is winning but keep your position of faith and stillness, and see the salvation of the Lord.
Worship and Praise the Lord
Jehoshaphat and all Judah worshiped and bowed before the Lord. They praised the beauty of holiness as they went out before the army. (v21) When they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people who came against them. Notice that they sang and praise before the battle was won. It was a celebration before the triumph. We should take heed to do the same. Giving thanks and praise for a promise not yet performed is absolute faith with assurance that God will perform His Word. *Sidenote: I just had to mention that as a bonus because God is the God of the exceedingly and more abundantly, after the battle was over Jehoshaphat and his people came to take the spoil that they found among their enemies. Which included an abundance of valuables such as precious jewels, more than they could carry. So much so that it took three days to gather it all. Look at God!
Rejoice and Rest
After they received God’s blessing and protection, Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah went back to Jerusalem with rejoicing! The realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet and God gave Him rest all around. (v30) Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God for you. (1Thessalonians 5:16-18) God is with you and no matter what it looks like believe the report of the Lord. His report overrides any news report, doctor’s report, lawyer’s report, the president’s report, your boss’ report, or any other man-made report. When the enemy comes in like a flood the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against Him. (Isaiah 59:19) Jehovah Nissi (The Lord My Banner) guarantees the victory. Be strong, be courageous, be patient. The battle is the Lord’s but the victory is yours! May God give you rest all around.
