LISTEN
NASB:
And he said, “Listen, all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem and king Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, ‘Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but God’s.'”
NIV:
He said: “Listen, king Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.'”
Observations:
When Jehoshaphat was king of Judah, the Moabites and Ammonites prepared to invade them with superior numbers and firepower. So Jehoshaphat prayed to God for deliverance.
Jehaziel brings Jehoshaphat an answer from God.
God tells them not to be afraid or dismayed because of the apparent disaster coming upon them.
God tells them that the battle is not theirs — as in, Judah’s or Jehoshaphat’s.
God takes ownership of the battle and its outcome.
Takeaways:
When in distress, pray to God and listen for his answer.
Don’t be afraid when it seems as if disaster is imminent; know that God is in control.
Remember that whatever we face in life, the battle is not ours. The battle is God’s. Give it all to him.
