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PROGRAM D-8383
In 2 Chronicles 20, we find a wonderful example of what we should do when we face something or someone really difficult. Jehoshaphat faced an enemy army so large, they could blow his little troops to smithereens. But in his alarm, he inquired of the Lord and God sent him a plan through his prophet Jahaziel. Listen to what this prophet told Jehoshaphat:
Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow march down against them. . .You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you. . .Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you” (2 Chronicles 20:15-17).
Do you think a military strategist would approve of this plan? They were told to march down against the enemy but not to fight. What strange orders those are! Isn’t that just asking to be slaughtered? Surely it would have been much smarter if God had said, “Here are some guns, tanks, bombs, and jeeps. Now you can march down there and start firing your weapons.” Don’t you think that makes more sense?
It seems to me if God’s not going to supply them with the weapons needed, the only other thing that makes sense is to run in the other direction as fast as they can and hope they outrun the enemy. But God’s orders are to show up at the battle but not fight!
My friends, that is always what God asks of us. He doesn’t want us running away from the battle like chickens, giving up and throwing in the towel. But he doesn’t need us to come up with our battle plans and try to fight for him. He wins our battles in very unique ways, ways that we would never dream of. When we start trying to fight our way, we get in his way and keep him from winning it with his creative strategy.
What’s your battle today? Are you trying to fight it yourself—or maybe you’re running away from it? Either strategy is a big mistake. “Don’t fight; just show up!”