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November 9, 2009 - Prayer

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

In 2 Chronicles 19-20 we read about how King Jehoshaphat of Judah endeavored to honor God during his reign.  As a leader he spent a great deal of his time among the people.  He appointed judges to carry out the rule of law while directing builders to fortify the towns.

He was a good king as he regularly reminded his leaders: “Fear the Lord and judge with integrity, for the Lord our God doesn’t tolerate perverted justice, partially, or the taking of bribes.”(19:7)

Jehoshaphat was also open and honest about his faith.  He prayed to God publicly as he reminded them to “not be afraid or discouraged”.  The Israelites were fearful of the battles before them.  They were afraid that they would lose everything to the invaders, including their lives.

Today, many folks are fearful and discouraged.  The modeling of Jehoshaphat reminds us: “Do not be afraid or discouraged.  Go out against them (our enemies, our worries, and our fears) tomorrow, for The Lord is with you.” (20:17).

My friends don’t let the economy, the moral decay, the political unrest, or the failure in relationships slay you.  As believers in Christ we can come boldly into our Father’s throne room and seek His help and mercy.

Jehoshaphat’s prayer found in this section of scripture (Read 2 Chronicles 20:2-12) had six components that were true then and now:

1. He acknowledged that God’s intervention was the only way their nation would be saved.
2. He reminded the crowd how God had helped them through past difficulties.
3. He admitted God’s complete sovereignty over the situation.
4. He thanked and praised God for the protection He had given them and for what He would do to protect them in the future.
5. He claimed God’s promises.
6. He placed his dependence on God alone for the deliverance from their pending struggles.

Whatever your struggles, whatever your situation, whatever your financial dilemma, and whatever angst you feel about our nation and its politics – know that the God who saved the Israelites will save you and yours, and you are urged to pray for those in authority.  Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?  Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?  Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:25-27