Word for the day “We win”
II Chronicles 20:2-3 (GNT) “A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the sea. Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD.
WE WILL ALL HAVE TO FACE DISCOURAGING NEWS IN OUR LIVES, HOW YOU RESPOND TO THE NEWS MAKES THE DIFFERENCE.
Have you ever had someone bring you really discouraging news? That was so bad that when you heard it your stomach immediately became upset. You went into crisis mode. I once had a doctor give me some bad news once about my Dad in 2002, and another time my Mom in 2010 that brought such fear upon me, I could hardly stand up. My parents ultimately transitioned from this life, but looking back now, God has sure been incredible in my life! This was the situation for King Jehoshaphat. He had just been informed that his country was going to be attacked by an army much larger than his. However, instead of panicking, he immediately turned to the Lord by calling for a time of fasting and prayer. The people from every town in Judah responded.
ALWAYS REMEMBER AS YOU SUBMIT YOUR LIFE TO THE LORD, HE WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES.
God supernaturally wiped out their enemies that day. They didn’t even have to fight. Please read today’s devotion for yourself. God caused the enemy to fight themselves. However, the one thing they did do that began the ambush of the enemy, was when they began to praise God on the battlefield. I’m learning now more than ever before, to praise God in good times and bad times in my journey! “As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated” (II Chronicles 20:22-23).
In a manner very similar to this, God also gives signs to His overwhelmed and discouraged people. This is an area that is often so personal that few talk about it. But in my repeated opportunities to talk with people who have lost a husband or wife, a son or daughter, a job, their health, people who are going through great hardship and sometimes are tempted to feel abandoned in life. I have found that again and again, they tell me of some small but meaningful thing God has done to assure them that what they are enduring is not mere chance, but rather part of the wise and loving plan of God.
In my season of the death of my parents, I learned of God in a way that has changed my life for more than I can think or ever imagined (Ephesians 3:20). I have some new genuine relationships, new and fresh perspective on life, and have become a more influential man in my life with family and friendships, this is what I mean by signs. God does not always spare us distress because He has a purpose in such things both for ourselves and others. But the Lord has a way of reassuring us that He has not forgotten us. The Lord remembers our distress and has an amazing way of still working all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Quote “As I look back at these years, there have been years of great blessings more than I could have asked or ever imagined. At the same time, there have been many challenges and obstacles. There have been very few periods when I have not been facing some kind of battle” #James Baker, Jr. #We win #Instagram #Twitter
POINT TO PONDER
Jehoshaphat immediately did four things in response to discouraging news. 1. He called for prayer, 2. He called for fasting, 3. He asked for God’s strategy, and 4. He began his battle by praising God in the midst of the battle. Hope you are having a great day and that today’s message adds value to your journey!
How do you handle discouraging and life-changing news?
When do you seek the help of the Lord in your life?
Have you experienced life’s major disappointments?
Has the Lord shown you His amazing grace in your life’s battles?
What can be learned from Jehoshaphat for your life today?
When should you use the four things King Jehoshaphat did?
Where are you in your relationship with the Lord today?
Special thanks!
James Baker, Jr. and our leadership team are especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in the month of April 2021, by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Ms. Annette Straker, Ms. Rita McGuffin, Mr. Kenneth Washington, Ms. Mable Bazemore, Ms. Evelyn Rosado, Ms. Itholear Abbott, Mrs. Barbara Mason, Ms. Jeanette Grant, Ms. Angela Battle, Pastor Raymond Phillips, Mr. William Jones, Ms. Angie Scraders-Murphy, Mr. Calvin Jackson, Mrs. Shakeema Lowe, Mr. Calvin Griffith, Mrs. Angela Harrison, Mr. William Wilson, and Ms. Gertrude Scott.
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Kingdom Blessings,