What now?

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

During the years that I taught junior high students in an overcrowded school, I used to say (only slightly in jest) that my morning prayer was 2 Chronicles 20:12 — “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.”

When Judah’s King Jehoshaphat spoke those words, it was a matter of life and death. As a coalition of armies marched against Jerusalem, the people of Judah gathered to seek God’s guidance and help (v. 13).

During threatening times of disruption and change, we need to ask, “Lord, what do You want to do with this moment?” And like King Jehoshaphat, we should begin our prayer with praise to our sovereign and powerful Father in heaven (vv. 5-9).

God told the king and his people: “Do not be afraid nor dismayed . . . . for the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow go down against them . . . . For the Lord is with you” (vv. 15-17).

In stressful, confusing situations, we might ask a worried “What now?” But if we look to the Lord and trust in His care, our fear will be replaced with peace.  — David McCasland

O Lord, whenever we’re afraid,

We’ll put our trust in You

To lead, protect, and guide our way,

And help us make it through. — Sper

READ:  2 Chronicles 20:1-17

Faith ends where worry begins, and worry ends where faith begins.

The Bible in one year:

• Jeremiah 12-14

• 2 Timothy 1