“Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.” – 2 Chronicles 20:3
What a perfect response to a crisis! King Jehoshaphat received news of a powerful invading army. An overwhelming crisis was looming and the king had no idea how to deal with it. Unlike so many kings before him (and Christians after him), Jehoshaphat didn’t immediately start trying to think his way out of the situation, buy his way out of it, run away from it, or collapse before it in fear and anxiety.
He knew the situation was beyond his abilities, resources, and powers. So he sought the Lord in prayer and fasting. That is the best and most perfect first response to any crisis. Fasting and prayer. Seeking God’s will, guidance, and intervention. Instead of rallying his resources, the king got on his knees and encouraged everyone else to do the same. To seek God, Who has absolute power over every situation.
The good news is that it worked! Of course, God heard their prayers. Of course, God was pleased that unlike so many foolish and failed kings before him, this king sought the ultimate power. And of course, God intervened and saved the day, defeating Judah’s enemies.
Take a moment to consider how your instincts typically work. What’s your first thought when you become frightened by a situation or overwhelmed by a crisis? Is it to earnestly and humbly seek the Lord? It should be! Learn to take every thought captive. Try to re-train you mind and your heart to turn to prayer first rather than last. Spend more time with the Lord before the next crisis so you’re very close to Him when it strikes. Then devote yourself to prayer and fasting rather than fearing, fretting, fleeing, or failing. #FollowJesus