Stand Firm

I love the story in 2 Chronicles 20 about King Jehoshaphat of Judah. I turn to this Scripture often when in need of direction because it tells me to stand up and praise the Lord in the midst of indecision or need.

I was reminded of this chapter while reading a recent devotion by Alistair Begg in his devotion book "Truth for Life." Following is what he said:

"King Jehoshaphat of Judah was a phenomenon who implemented changes that helped God's people rediscover God's law. (Chapter 19) He reminded them of the importance of understanding and obeying God's word so that they could serve God faithfully, wholeheartedly, and courageously . . . We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.

"When the enemy whispers to us that we are a disaster or completely useless, we can set his lies against the truth of God's word and say, 'I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ' . .  God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it . . . I will never leave you nor forsake you . . . When we do not know what to do, we can keep our eyes on Him, and ask Him to guide us and deliver us, just as He did Jehoshaphat and the whole of Judah."

Five places in chapter 20 it is written: "stand in your presence . . . stood there before the Lord . . . stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you . . . stood up and praised the Lord."

I love that! The Lord gave them victory and caused them to rejoice over their enemies.

I've often write in notes thanking people for standing strong for our God. We need to see men and women standing up for our Lord and God, waiting for Him to do His work.

I receive so much joy from devotion books, especially rich ones that dig deep in Scripture and feed my soul. They inspire me, motivate me, bring praise from my heart to God and help me understand God's Word. 

Do you read devotion books? There's a ton of them out there. They are well worth your time AFTER you've read from God's Word. Some of my favorite our Spurgeon, Tozer, Begg, Tiegreen, Weirsbe and Cowman.

If you've never read about King Jehoshaphat in Chapter 20 of 2 Chronicles, take a moment to see what he did and what God did. I think you'll be doing a lot more standing when you do!

By His Grace . . .