At one point or another in our lives, we get overwhelmed by different happenings that affect our lives. Currently, the world is grappling with the Corona Virus situation. The pandemic has posed great threat and disruption to the lives and livelihoods of everyone. Family, work, business, ministry, education … the list is endless … have been adversely affected. Many people have lost hope and they feel overwhelmed by the difficult circumstances.

Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, was in a similar situation of desperation and helplessness when he was faced by a vast army of three nations that joined forces to wage war against him. He was alarmed not knowing what to do. How Jehoshaphat responded to the situation is what made all the difference for him and his nation, and, if we will follow his lead, it will also make all the difference for us as we respond to these overwhelming situations.

He turned to God!

2 Chronicles 20:1-30 tells us that he resolved to inquire of God and proclaimed a fast. He prayed to God acknowledging God’s great power and how He had done great things for them in the past. Then humbling himself before God he said, in verse 12, “…For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do but our eyes are on you.” He and all the people of Judah threw themselves on the mercy of the Lord, expressing their desperate need of Him. The Lord was gracious to them. He spoke to them a message of assurance of His presence and victory in the battle – a battle which they would not need to fight, for the Lord would indeed fight for them. (v.17) The following day as they praised the Lord in song, God annihilated their enemies, and they just went to collect the plunder! They again rejoiced and praised the Lord for the victory.

So, in reflection, when you find yourselves in an overwhelming situation:

Enquire from the Lord. What is God saying? What does God intend to do? (v. 3)

Have other like-minded people join you as together you seek help from God. (v. 4)

Pray in unity verses 5-12.

Remind yourself, as you speak to God in prayer, of the great things He has done in the past. This will grow your faith in God. (v. 6-9)

Get to know God’s promises by reading, study and meditation of Gods word. (vs 6-9) Pray the scriptures - you will pray with assurance that your prayers will be answered since you will be taking God at His Word.

Wait on the Lord to speak to you. (vs 14-17)

Do what the Lord tells you to do by faith and you will be sure of success and victory. (vs 18-26)

May the Lord be gracious to you and give you the victory!