Pray First, Pray More

2 Chronicles 20:1,3 (NLT)

1. After this, the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites declared war on Jehoshaphat.

3. Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and begged the LORD for guidance. He also ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting.

Explanation:

Verse 1:

– This verse sets the scene by describing a coalition of enemies (Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites) that declared war on Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah. It shows that Judah is facing a significant threat from multiple fronts.

Verse 3:

– Jehoshaphat’s reaction to the threat is one of fear, which is a natural human response to such overwhelming danger. However, instead of succumbing to panic, he seeks God’s guidance. This verse highlights Jehoshaphat’s faith and dependence on God in times of crisis.

– Additionally, Jehoshaphat calls for a nationwide fast, which is a communal act of seeking divine intervention and showing humility before God. Fasting in this context is a way to intensify prayers and show earnestness in seeking God’s help.

Summary:

In these verses, Jehoshaphat demonstrates a model of godly leadership by turning to God in a time of crisis. His actions reflect trust in God’s power and sovereignty, and he encourages his people to do the same by collectively seeking God’s intervention through fasting and prayer.