Don’t Be Discouraged (1)

AFTER Jehoshaphat’s prayer, God came down and the first thing He did was to tell the people through His prophet that they should not be afraid. But, why does God always come first with this assurance ‘Don’t be afraid’ anytime He wants to intervene in our situation? 

  “As all the men of Judah stood before the LORD with their little ones, wives, and children, the Spirit of the LORD came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite who was a descendant of Asaph. He said, “Listen, King Jehoshaphat! Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s” 2 Chronicles 20:13-15.

   Yes, don’t be afraid because it is not your battle! It is God’s! This was His first reaction to their supplication. God comes this way in order to cool any existing tension in us. He tells us not to be afraid at the time of battles, so that we will not lose focus and faith or make mistakes. A time of battle (spiritual or physical) is a time to be strong, courageous and remain focused on Him that is able to do all things. Some get mercilessly defeated from the first stage of the battle because of fear, loss of confidence and confusion. They look at the size of the enemy and intensity challenge, their weak position, their inadequacies and lack of support. No! You must not allow this. Always focus on the greatness of your God and His unlimited ability to rescue you and defeat any enemy. True.

    Look at that first action of Jehoshaphat again. Immediately, he received the message that three nations were already near to attack his country, the Bible says he was alarmed and sought the LORD for guidance.

Rev. Agbo is the author of the book ‘Power of Midnight Prayer.’ Website: www.authorsden.com/pastorgabrielnagbo  gabrielagbo@yahoo.com