WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN AN INVASION

Wherever we turn in society, there seems to be a concerted onslaught of ungodly ways that are attempting to erode those godly principles that are outlined within the Bible. In a spiritual sense, it seems like we are in a war, opposing an invasion of all that is evil. How should we respond?

Jehoshaphat was king of Judah, and he experienced first-hand the combined opposing forces of Ammon, Moab and the Meunites. (2 Chron. 20:1). Understandably, he was alarmed. So, how did he respond? With fear and a fortress mentality? No.

1)     He inquired of the Lord, and proclaimed a fast for all of Judah (v3)

2)     He prayed (v 5 – 12)

3)     He heard from God that the battle was not his own but God’s (v14 – 17)

4)     He encouraged his people to have faith in God and His prophets (v20)

5)     He appointed men to worship (v21)

6)     God undertook by setting ambushes against the armies attacking Judah. (v22)

7)     All praised God for His intervention (v26 – 28)

Notice the key words: Fasting, Praying, Listening, Encouraging each other, Worshipping and Praising.

We read stories like this, and it all seems so straight-forward, even simple, right? But perhaps we don’t always see the evidence of victories being outworked in this manner. Why is that? Perhaps the one quality that lies behind each of the above qualities is missing: Zeal.

Surprisingly, even the Lord needs to stir up His zeal: The LORD will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies. (Isaiah 42:13)

Are we half-hearted or full of zeal for God’s ways in our society/ neighbourhood? The Psalmist says zeal consumed him: My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. (Psalm 119:139).

Will we be full of zeal today in fasting, prayer, encouraging others, worshipping and praising?