Humbly Ask For Help
Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazezon Tamar” (that is, En Gedi). Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him. -- 2 Chronicles 20:2-4
Why do we wait until we’ve tried everything else before we seek God’s help? We do. We wait until we’re out of options and the crisis is overwhelming before we ask God to help us.
Not Jehoshaphat. He learned that serious trouble was coming and he immediately sought God’s help. He understood that all the strategy sessions, all the men, all the plans, just wouldn’t work. The only way his people could survive was if God intervened.
I wonder what would happen if we went to God first when we were faced with a challenge. What if we asked God for help before our situation reached crisis mode? What if we asked for God’s direction before we went in the wrong direction?
We’re just so independent. We don’t want to humble ourselves before mighty God, forgetting that our Heavenly Father loves us so much and wants good things for us. His wisdom is perfect. His protection impenetrable.
‘If calamity comes upon us, whether the sword of judgment, or plague or famine, we will stand in your presence before this temple that bears your Name and will cry out to you in our distress, and you will hear us and save us.’
Faith. Jehoshaphat had faith in God’s ability and in His willingness to save His people. He knew God would hear his prayer. Do you ever wonder if God hears your prayers? He does. He always helps His children.
Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” -- 2 Chronicles 20:12
I’ve always loved this verse. Jehoshaphat admitted that he didn’t know what to do. He didn’t try to pretend with Almighty God. He didn’t try to tell God what to do. He humbled himself and admitted he was powerless and needed God’s help. That’s a lesson for us to learn.
You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’” -- 2 Chronicles 20:17
And He did. God fought for His people and saved them, causing their opponents to basically slaughter themselves. God delivered His people in a way they never could have imagined.
He’ll do the same for you and me. We just have to humble ourselves and ask.
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