This battle belongs to the Lord

2 Chronicles chapter 20 tells of the Moabites and Ammonites coming to war against Jehoshaphat. When Jehoshaphat found this out, he "decided to inquire of the Lord." He didnt start making plans to fight back. He didn't decide to flee. No, he chose to seek the Lord. Not only did Jehoshaphat chose to seek the Lord, He called all the people together to fast and pray so that as a groups they could seek the Lord's plans.

Then, the Spirit of the Lord spoke through Jahaziel and told them that the battle was not theirs--it was the Lord's. He told him to go to meet the Moabites and Ammorites.. and for the people to take their position and stand firm. He said (as He so often does in scripture) not to be discouraged or afraid due to the circumstances (the large enemy army), but rather to trust the Lord. How often when battle ensues do we run to seek the Lord? How often when He tells us it will be ok, do we insist on worrying or trying to make other plans because we see no evidence of possibility?

Scripture says Jehoshaphat fell on his face and all of the people fell down to worship the Lord. Some stood up and sang praises to Him. So in the threat of war, less than 24 hours before battle, they weren't polishing their weapons. They weren't talking strategy. They weren't making plans to evacuate the city. No, they were havin' church! They were praising the Lord!
They were worshiping Him with all they had.

The next morning, the day of battle, they went out early to meet the enemy armies. But first.... Jehoshaphat encouraged the people--reminded them of what the Lord said--and He appointed men to go in front and lead the army in praise. I love this part. Can you imagine, an army going to war and taking song books rather than weapons?

Notice that the Lord had told them to go and take their position and stand firm. He didnt tell them to go out praising. That was the *result* of their faith. And He responded to that too.. actually, they never had to take their position, because when they got to the battle sight, the enemy had already been slaughtered. They went above and beyond God's request and He went above and beyond His promise.

For those suffering in Somalia's persecution, remember to go out praising the Lord. Take Your position and stand firm and trust in the Lord, for this battle belongs to the Lord.