WHAT TO DO IN THE MIDST OF PROBLEMS?
After this, the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites declared war on Jehoshaphat. Messengers came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army from Edom is marching against you from beyond the Dead Sea. They are already at Hazazon-tamar.” (This was another name for En-gedi. (2 Chronicles 20:1-2 NLT)
King Jehoshaphat was facing a great problem, his enemies had declared war and a great army was coming against him and his people. He was not prepared to face them and became full of fear. But, in the midst of the difficulty, he knew how to resolve it.
Bad news always catches us by surprise, problems seem to come over us, and it is normal to become full of fear. That is why we learn from Jehoshaphat’s example. What was the first thing that he did?
Jehoshaphat consulted God.
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 NLT).
He made the correct decision, but the first thing he did was consult God, seek His presence, help, and direction. When we confront problems, the first thing we need to do is consult God instead of complaining and worrying. We should pray and ask for wisdom.
Jehoshaphat knew that he could not overcome them in his own strength.
O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” (2 Chronicles 20:12 NLT)
Let’s not trust our own opinions or other’s. Jehoshaphat seemed God, not a witch or friend, nor did he base it off of his own opinion. When you confront a marriage, financial, health problem, seek God first and He will give you the answer to resolve your problems.
Think about it:
What is the first thing you do when a great problem surprises you?
Who do you run to help for?
In the midst of problems, have you made wrong decisions due to not consulting God?
