Life will present situations that may seem overwhelming. As we seek to figure out a solution to our dilemma, we may become frustrated and spiral down in despair. There is an example of a king in the Old Testament who was facing a great army that was coming to make war against his nation. From a human standpoint, there was no solution to this predicament. What is your initial response when facing an overwhelming problem. For many people, their initial response is usually fear. The key is what King Jehoshaphat did after he faced his fear:

Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the Lord; and he proclaimed a period of fasting throughout Judah. (2 Chronicles 20:3)

The nation was facing a desperate situation and the people knew it. Likewise, we face difficult situations in our world today. The situation is desperate, but the saints are not. Jehoshaphat knew that he needed divine intervention. He called the people together and reminded them of God’s omnipotent power:

and he said, “Lord, God of our fathers, are You not God in the heavens? And are You not ruler over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand so that no one can stand against You. (2 Chronicles 20:6)

He recalled God’s faithfulness to the nation of Israel in the past:

Did You not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land from Your people Israel, and give it to the descendants of Your friend Abraham forever? (2 Chronicles 20:7)

He then brought the problem of the invading armies before God:

Now behold, the sons of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, whom You did not allow Israel to invade when they came out of the land of Egypt (for they turned aside from them and did not destroy them), see how they are rewarding us by coming to drive us out from Your possession which You have given us as an inheritance. (2 Chronicles 20:10-11)

Then Jehoshaphat left the problem with God. He realized that he was not strong enough to overcome them and confessed that they had no idea what to do, but they were looking to God:

Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You. (2 Chronicles 20:12)

How do you respond when you’re facing an overwhelming situation and you have no idea of what to do? We may feel fearful, confused, and even angry. We must realize that victims will never become victors. We must give our problem to God and He in turn can give us His peace – a peace that surpasses all human understanding. The situation may not work out as we desire, but our response is to entrust ourselves to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Rick Higgins

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark