In 2 Chronicles 20 What Can We Learn From Jehoshaphats Response To Fear And Crisis?

Facing Crisis with Faith: Lessons from Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20

In times of overwhelming crisis, the story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20 offers a powerful example of how God's people can respond with faith instead of fear. Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, faced a vast coalition of enemies threatening his kingdom. His response teaches us timeless truths about seeking God, worship, and trust amidst adversity.

1. Recognizing and Admitting Fear

Jehoshaphat did not deny his fear when confronted by a "great multitude" coming against him:

Then Jehoshaphat was afraid, and set himself to seek unto Jehovah; and he proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. - 2 Chronicles 20:3 ASV

Facing fear honestly is the first step toward faithfully responding to crisis. Instead of allowing fear to paralyze him, Jehoshaphat turned to the Lord, seeking His guidance through fasting and prayer.

2. Seeking God Through Prayer and Worship

Jehoshaphat gathered the people to seek the Lord:

And Judah gathered themselves together, to seek help of Jehovah: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek Jehovah. - 2 Chronicles 20:4 ASV

He led his people in a heartfelt prayer, acknowledging God's sovereignty, recalling His past faithfulness, and expressing their helplessness:

O our God, wilt thou not judge them? For we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee. - 2 Chronicles 20:12 ASV

This humility and dependence on God is a model for believers facing trials. Instead of relying on his own strength, Jehoshaphat turned his eyes to the Lord.

3. Listening for God’s Word

As the people stood before the Lord, God spoke through Jahaziel, assuring them of His presence and power:

...Thus saith Jehovah unto you, Fear not ye, neither be dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s. - 2 Chronicles 20:15 ASV

God's Word brought comfort and direction, reminding them that He fights for His people. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture:

What time I am afraid, I will put my trust in thee. - Psalm 56:3 ASV

4. Responding with Worship and Obedience

Jehoshaphat and the people responded by worshiping and praising the Lord even before the victory was won:

And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa... And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed them that should sing unto Jehovah, and give praise in holy array, as they went out before the army, and say, Give thanks unto Jehovah; for his lovingkindness endureth for ever. - 2 Chronicles 20:20-21 ASV

Praising God in advance is a demonstration of faith. God honored their trust; He caused confusion among their enemies, resulting in a miraculous victory (2 Chronicles 20:22 ASV).

5. The Result: God’s Glory and Peace

After the victory, the people gathered to bless the Lord and returned to Jerusalem with joy:

And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of the countries, when they heard that Jehovah fought against the enemies of Israel. So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet; for his God gave him rest round about. - 2 Chronicles 20:29-30 ASV

When God’s people respond to fear with faith, God is glorified and His peace prevails.

Christ-Centered Application

This account points us to Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate Deliverer. Just as Jehoshaphat acknowledged his inability and looked to God, believers are called to trust in Christ alone for salvation and victory over sin:

for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV

In every crisis, we are invited to turn our eyes to Jesus, the "author and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2 ASV).

Summary of Key Lessons

Admit fear, but let it drive you to seek God.
Pray honestly and corporately in crisis.
Listen for God's Word and trust His promises.
Respond with worship and obedience, even before the outcome is seen.
Remember that the battle belongs to the Lord, and He is glorified when we trust Him.

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