Hearing His Voice #260

O our God, . . . we do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.

2 Chronicles 20:12

Jehoshaphat’s most famous battle began in desperation and ended without anyone in Israel actually having to fight. Surrounded by a hostile coalition, Jehoshaphat did what we all do in hopeless situations: He cried out to God. And with refreshing honesty for a king standing before his people, he declared his country’s weakness and his own helplessness, and he appealed to God for help. And that’s when he heard from God.

Honesty, humility, and faith are the right posture for hearing from God about anything. Most of us cry out to God in desperate situations, but often with a sense of hopelessness and no real expectation that He will answer. But Jehoshaphat began his appeal differently. He worshiped God, declared God’s power and might, reminded God of His friendship with Abraham and His stake in the nation of Israel and the land, and emphatically stated his expectation that God would answer their pleas (2 Chronicles 20:6-9). This was no shot-in-the-dark prayer that had little chance of hitting the target. It was an urgent but confident plea for God to intervene. It wasn’t just desperation. It was desperation plus faith. That’s a powerful combination.

We often ask God to speak, but with a sense of hopelessness embedded in our request. That isn’t the best posture for hearing Him. But asking in faith, no matter how overwhelming or urgent the situation seems to be, draws His attention when other attitudes won’t. Hebrews 11:6 tells us it’s impossible to please God without faith, but the obvious implication is that faith will certainly please Him. It’s His nature to respond to those who believe.

When you need God to speak, ask Him with a great sense of expectation. Be confident that He will answer, even if that answer takes time. Look to Him in every desperate situation. But look knowing that He will step in with His wisdom, power, and love.

Lord, I don’t know what to do, but my eyes are on You. You have invested a lot in me, and I know You will continue Your work. Let me know what You want me to do.