Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite and descendant of Asaph, as he stood in the assembly. 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. Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’ ”
Jehoshaphat was wise to gather all the people and seek God’s intervention. In today’s verses, we see how God used a prophet in the midst of the people to deliver a word of direction and encouragement that God would be with the people.
In his prophecy, Jahaziel reminds the people of Judah that the battle is not theirs, but God’s. This underscores the importance of acknowledging our limitations and placing our trust in Him during times of adversity.
This highlights the idea that our struggles are not only ours to bear; God’s intervention can change the course of events beyond our understanding.
Furthermore, Jahaziel’s prayer underscores the significance of actively listening to the messages God sends through His messengers. In this case, Jahaziel’s prophetic word provides crucial insight and direction to Jehoshaphat and the people. This teaches us the value of remaining receptive to God’s guidance, whether it comes through scriptures, prayer, or the counsel of the wise people around us.
How is God using scripture, prayer or the wise people around you to speak into your life?
Pray: “Lord Jesus, open my eyes to the relationships around me, and to Your presence in, and plan for, my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
