The Battle is Not Yours

Sometimes we fight battles that God does not call us to fight. Oftentimes the devil wants to occupy our time, energy, spiritual and natural resources in fighting these battles so that we are distracted or ineffective in what God wants us to do.

In 2 Chronicles 20 a vast army from Moab and Ammon comes against Jehoshaphat and Israel. Let’s look at Jehoshaphat’s response to this threat from the enemy.

1. He resolved to inquire of the Lord. 20:3
2. He proclaimed a national fast. 20:3
3. He prayed.
1. He glorified God. 20:6
2. He reviewed what God had done. 20:7
3. He reminded God of His promise.20:8-9

Ps. 105:8 “He remembers His covenant forever,

The word which He commanded, for a thousand generations,…”

2 Cor. 1:20-22 “For all the promises of God in Him (Christ) are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22 who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” NKJV God did this for a reason. He did all this to fulfill His promise/covenant and bring you to the Promised Land, a place of destiny.

4. He stated the problem. 20:10-11
5. He declared their dependence on God. 20:12
3. God responds with encouragement and direction. 20:14-17

2 Chron. 20:15 “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.” NIV

2 Chron. 20:17 “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you,…” NIV

5. Jehoshaphat’s response.
1. Praise and worship. 20:18-19
2. Faith in God and His word. 20:20-21
3. Obedience 20:21
6. God’s deliverance. 20:22-24
1. Divine provision. 20:25-26
2. Rejoicing 20:27-28
3. Fear of God and peace. 20:29-30

How do you handle challenges, problems and attacks of the enemy? Do you try to resolve the problem yourself? Maybe pray and then resolve the problem? Or do you seek to hear the voice of God, declare your dependence on him, and respond in obedience to his word? Be encouraged. The victory is ours!

Andy Clark