2 Chronicles 20:3-4, 29-30
3 Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. 4 The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.
29 The fear of God came on all the surrounding kingdoms when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. 30 And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.
This scripture was included in one of my devotions this past week, and it has stuck with me for the past few days. I think it is neat how a scripture can be read time and time again, and each time something new comes out of it. Such is the case here; the devotional author brought to light something I would have otherwise missed - the first three words: "Alarmed, Jehosaphat resolved..."
These three words highlight that Jehosaphat reacted to the situation at hand with an emotion ("alarmed"), yet responded ("resolved") in a means of obedience to God. How often do I allow an emotion guide a response, instead of my response being guided by obedience to God's Word or direction? Yes, it is certainly easier to act upon an emotion, but such emotional response can many times lead to actions or words that are later regretted. As the scripture continues, it is evident that peace was a result of obedience to God's direction. So, if we simply follow in obedience to God's Word and direction, we can have peace and trust in His way.
Simple, yet difficult to consistently live out...
No comments:
Post a Comment