RESPONDING TO FEAR

After enjoying peace for much of his reign, King Jehoshaphat received news that an alliance of three nations had massed their armies and had marched around the Dead Sea to attack Judah. It is hardly surprising that “Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news” (2 Chronicles 20:3, NLT). But while fear can sometimes cause us to do strange things that seem out of character, it can also be a catalyst for revealing our true selves—perhaps these can even be moments when we rise above ourselves. In Jehoshaphat’s fear, he sought God.

Jehoshaphat also asked all the people to join him in seeking God. This is where the work he had done earlier in his reign brought results. The people had been taught the ways of God, and in a time of crisis, “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 20:4).

We often do not see immediate results from the work we do in building up others, encouraging their faith, teaching them faithfulness—but then we might.

That was Jehoshaphat’s privilege. When he was gripped by fear, his people joined him in seeking God and His guidance, even as their enemies continued to march closer. Leading his nation in prayer, Jehoshaphat drew on the history of the people of Israel, claimed God’s promises, and sought His intervention. “Our God, will you not judge them?” he prayed. “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). Even in his alarm, Jehoshaphat knew where his focus should be, and he was able to lead his people there as well.