Jehoshaphat

O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.

2 Chronicles 20:12

Jehoshaphat, a king whose name meant “Jehovah is judge,” was one of only a few godly kings in Judah. He tore down the pagan worship sites and dispatched priests and Levites throughout the nation to teach people the laws of God (2 Chronicles 17:6-9).

Jehoshaphat is best known, however, for how he handled a crisis that could have destroyed the country he ruled. When several surrounding nations gathered against Judah to destroy it, Jehoshaphat knew he was no match militarily. So he called the people and leaders of Judah together to pray. The last sentence of his prayer summarizes his heart: “Nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (2 Chronicles 20:12). God answered his prayer for help and gave Judah the victory—the armies against him turned on each other and destroyed themselves.

If you are facing a situation today that seems hopeless, one for which you have no answers, pray Jehoshaphat’s prayer: “Lord, I don’t know what to do, but my eyes are on You.” Stay focused on Him until the answer comes.

It is better to meet God with tears in your eyes than weapons in your hands.

THOMAS WATSON