That was the cry of a man of God, Judah’s king. That phrase has been repeated by most everyone at some time in life. So many things seem too perplexing in life: issues concerning health, finances, domestic relationships and the uncertain future. Surely there must be answers and solutions to the problems we face. Many centuries ago, Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, faced what seemed an impossible situation. Two armies had crossed the southern marshes of the Dead Sea and were just twenty-one miles from Jerusalem. Judah’s army was not mustered; the invasion had taken them by surprise. This godly king knew that only Divine help could stay the hand of the enemy. His first act was to lead his nation in prayer to the God of Israel. Wow!! Recorded in the historical annals of the nation, we read --
… “O our God, will you not judge them? 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 upon you. All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the LORD.”(2 Chronicles 20:12-13 NIV)
Prayer was not his last resort; it was his first option. God’s reply came immediately --
… “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: '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. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.’ Jehoshaphat bowed with his face to the ground and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the LORD.”(2 Chronicles 20:15-18 NIV)
Once again, God demonstrated His faithfulness to His people, Israel. Many years later, we see Jesus teaching concerning the cost of following Him. Many had believed in Him as the Messiah, but the cost of discipleship seemed too much for some. Tradition and social pressure mounted against this One who had come to His own people as promised. He had presented Himself to them as their Savior and King and demonstrated His power. He was the long awaited Messiah of Israel. The Scriptures reveal that --
… “From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. ‘You do not want to leave too, do you?’ Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.’”(John 6:66-69 NIV)
Both Jehoshaphat and Peter evidenced a deep faith in the only One who brings peace and stability to the soul; He can do the same for a nation but there is a condition --
… “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”(2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV)