Truly believing that in a time like this—whenever we are faced with any calamity such as war, disease, or famine—we can stand here before this Temple and before you—for you are here in this Temple—and cry out to you to save us; and that you will hear us and rescue us. 2 Chronicles 20:9 TLB
If there ever was a Bible verse describing “times like this” Jehosaphat’s prayer fits the bill perfectly, even if it was prayed almost 3,000 years ago. And although he prayed before the Temple because God was there; but we are now the Temple and Holy Spirit lives within us. Which by the way is an even better position.
We now have the power of God living inside of us through our relationship with Jesus. As Paul put it, we have Jesus’ resurrection power (Philippians 3:10). So tell me, why are so many in the church wringing their hands and talking about all the calamity around us, when we have the power to overcome? Look at what Jehoshaphat said, when they would cry out, God not only would hear, but rescue them. What confidence and faith is in that declaration, not just that they would be rescued, but that God is faithful. And He is faithful, because that’s Who He is, not what He does.
And what was God’s response to such a bold statement? He told them not to be afraid because the battle was not theirs, but His and they should take their position, stand still and watch Him have the victory. In the morning, Jehoshaphat told the people to believe in the Lord their God and to go out singing and praising Him. And when they did, the enemy armies turned against one another and destroyed each other, not one survived. Not only was victory won, but there was so much plunder it took three days to collect it all! And they praised and thanked God for all He had done.
Beloved of God, He has not changed, He wants to fight our battles today just like He did then. And how was that accomplished? By believing and standing in Him while singing and praising Him. Perhaps we should take the stand Jehoshaphat did so long ago and declare the faithfulness, power and glory of the Lord our God and watch what He will do for those who truly believe.
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