But Our Eyes are on You

Standing in the assembly of Judaea and Jerusalem, King Jehoshaphat cried out unto the Lord and prayed to God. He asked him in verse six, “are you not the God who is in heaven?” and he declared that “You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.”

In previous verses King Jehoshaphat had been told that a vast army was coming against them. His response was to inquire of the Lord (verse 3).

Friend, today, the “vast army” that comes against us is much different than what King Jehoshaphat faced. However, the battles we endure are manufactured by the same enemy of our souls. Scripture tells us in Ephesians 6:12 that we wrestle not with flesh and blood: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

In many Old Testament accounts, God’s people had physical armies to fight while we have “armies” to contend with in other forms such as poor health, financial difficulties, relational challenges and more. Yet, we have the same opportunity to choose to inquire of the Lord just as King Jehoshaphat did.

What is our decision in the midst of conflicts? Once again, King Jehoshaphat provides another example to follow. In verse twelve he concludes his prayer with the following: “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.”

Isn’t this the case sometimes, that we find ourselves without answers? If we can humble ourselves before our amazing God and acknowledge our powerlessness, and our lack of knowledge, then turn our eyes on him, we will find that he will meet us right where we are. The situation might not change instantly, but then again, it could! That is up to God. Our part is to keep our eyes on God in the battle, when the vast army is coming, when the fight has prolonged, and especially after he has brought us through to victory.

I encourage you to seek the Lord where you find yourself in life today. If a vast army is coming your way, inquire of the Lord. Cry out to our gracious God. Let him know that you don’t know what to do, but your eyes are on him. He loves you so much more than you can know and he will meet you in spite of the army that is against you. You will know the battle is not yours but God’s! (verse 15)

Dear Jesus, I ask you to help me seek you today. Help me keep my eyes on you even among the battles of life. Please remind me that you are near and will answer my prayers, in your mighty name, Jesus. Thank you. Amen.

Go deeper: Read II Chronicles 20:1-30 for the complete testimony. Also, study scriptures about seeking the Lord and keeping your eyes on him. Isaiah 26:3-4 and Proverbs 3:5-6 are a great start!