Wednesday, January 20th, 2010
Fasting Day 11
I wonder as we are approaching the mid-point of the fast are you facing opposition from somewhere in your life? Is it from someone particular, you can all their name see their face? Is it just things seem to be happening and you’re frustrated, tired looking for a way up? First remember Satan hates what we are doing and he is going to bring opposition in any way he can to discourage you to stop you from seeking God. If he can get you to focus on something or someone other than God, he’s accomplishing his mission, see opposition for what it is … A trick of the evil one.
Perhaps you are at a place in your life where you feel like you are at the end of the rope such desperation you can’t afford to miss God’s will for your life. You feel trapped, held hostage, there is pressure because of circumstances, you are under attack by the enemy. The way we survive is draw near to God – from His hand no one can snatch you – hear His voice, follow His plan.
Look what King Jehoshaphat did when he faced opposition in 2 Chronicles 20:3-4, 13 “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved (made up his mind, decided) to inquire (seek, call ) of the Lord, and he proclaimed a FAST for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him. All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the Lord.” The king called the people together for a fast seeking God in the face of opposition … sound a little familiar … kind of like a Pastor challenging a church to come together and fast for release from opposition or fear in their life. Hence why we call this series Fearless 2010.
So ok, there was opposition and there was a fast … maybe your thinking well I’ve got those two myself … I’m fasting and there is opposition. What good did it do? Did King Jehoshaphat win? Did he make it through? In verse 14 the Spirit of the Lord came upon the son of Zechariah and he stood in front of the whole assembly and here is what he said … Verses 15,17, “ … Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! (All the people fasting were told to listen) 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. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.” They didn’t even have to fight! The prophet told them it’s not your battle, Let God handle it!
Do you want God to tell you what you need to do at this time in your life? Fast, Worship and Seek God! Be still and listen! When the people of Judah and Jerusalem did God fought for them. And the battle took ONE day, God not only delivered them, but HE PROSPERED them! If you read this chapter it took them three days to carry off all the riches. I bet you’re like me you’re ready for some of those battles that it takes longer to carry off the riches than it does to even fight the battle. Just like King Jehoshaphat press on, endure in times of opposition – God will deliver you and show you His plan.
Be Blessed,
PJ
