Courage in uncertainty
2 CHRONICLES 20:12: “O our God, wilt Thou not judge them? For we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do, but our eyes are upon Thee.” When we face uncertainty in the form of unchartered waters, unproven theories, and what may seem to be insurmountable tasks, our natural reaction and usually with much advice is to take the comfortable familiar path.
Jehoshaphat, the King of Judah, and his people were faced with a dilemma: the army coming against them far outnumbered them both in manpower and ammunition. Jehoshaphat admitted that he did not have any strategies of his own. He really did not know what to do and so wholly depended on God to give him directions and the ultimate victory over his enemies. In doing this, Jehoshaphat exhibited one of the most powerful leadership qualities: honesty! This powerful display of honesty gained not only victory but also displayed another profound leadership quality: courage! He knew that God had a proven reputation of being a mighty man of war and what is more He is a commander-in-chief that never looses a battle.
So often when we are faced with challenges, instead of first going to God in honesty, we seek the advice of strategists who are experts in the specific field. We forget that although these strategists may be brilliant and are to be commended, God is indeed the best strategist, He is omniscient, He alone knows the beginning from the end, He is the only wise God, all wisdom and knowledge are contained in Him. All His directions are infallible and with impeccable clarity. We do well to first seek God’s directions as the way of progress and ultimate success!
Eternal Father, as a nation we confess that we are faced with what seems to be formidable challenges, we do not know what to do but our eyes are upon You. We admit that we can do nothing without You so we ask for Your sovereign intervention to lead us and so accomplish Your will and purpose in our nation.
In Jesus’ name
Amen.
