Posted by 2 Chronicles 20:12
“…For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”
In our passage under consideration we see a closing statement from King Jehoshaphat’s prayer for help. This narrative begins with the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some troops from the Meunites, coming to fight against Jehoshaphat. The king is told about this “vast army,” a coalition of kings moving against him. Jehoshaphat proclaims a fast and calls the people of Judah together to seek the Lord. From all the cities of Judah the people came together united in prayer.
Keep Your Eyes on Him
Jehoshaphat knew they were vastly outnumbered, and lacked the firepower to successfully defend Judah against such an attack. His prayer is a classic example of reasoning with God from the Written Word, and taking a stand on His promises to His people. He concludes his cry for help with a statement of fact and a complete surrender to God for their survival. “…For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” This is an incredible statement of faith. Don’t ever be afraid to state your case as it is, telling God what you think and how you feel… just keep your eyes on God!
There’s a Connection between United Prayer and the Miraculous.
The Holy Spirit then comes to rest on a Levite named Jahaziel, who prophesies to the people; “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” (2 Chronicles 20:15).
Judah is enabled to defeat the coalition of Kings by sending their singers out ahead of their army singing: “Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever” (2 Chronicles 20:21). Even today, the fight still belongs to the Lord, and there is still power in praise!
Acts 12 gives us another amazing account of the connection between united prayer and the miraculous. In this chapter we see King Herod coming against the Church, arresting some and planning to persecute the rest. James had already been killed, and now Peter as been thrown into prison. We read in Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” The Church had no physical army, no political influence with the government, and were under attack by the Religious leaders as well. Like Judah in Jehoshaphat’s day, they were out numbered and were no match for the Roman government.
The Church gathered together before God and continued in earnest prayer for Peter. Keep in mind they had no political influence that could be used to secure Peter’s release from prison. They were not discouraged although the odds of a hopeful outcome were against them; so they simply gathered together and prayed… Their eyes were on Him!
It is easily seen here that the Church must have had a regular habit of praying together; their immediate response to this situation was to gather together for prayer. Their united praying brought the angel to Peter’s rescue and facilitated his release. What power the Church in all ages displayed when they sought God together, and took their stand with their eyes on Him. They knew that when two or three were gathered together in the name of the Lord, He was in their midst (Matthew 18:20)!
Follow Their Example
With so many examples of the miraculous power of united prayer in the biblical record; there really isn’t any reason we shouldn’t be seeing miraculous answers to prayer as the norm in our churches today. I believe that the rising tide of united praying will once again have a powerful influence in our cities through the miracle working power of the Holy Spirit emanating from our churches continuing in genuine heartfelt prayer.
The early Church always devoted themselves to continuing in prayer together (Colossians 4:2). keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and developer of our faith, will bring amazing answers from heaven. This kind of lifestyle changes things, saves and heals people, and transforms the lives of everyone involved in the process. Hebrews 11:32-35 records the accounts of those who emerged victorious in battle because their eyes were on God. Even while under attack the praying Church is unstoppable.
So, Be committed to united prayer in your Church, take a stand against the armies of spiritual darkness, Do not be discouraged, Keep your eyes on Christ, and Be Encouraged! -JSP
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