God desires us to follow Him faithfully, but does that mean that we ever limit our expressions to Sunday mornings? Absolutely not. In all times, great or difficult, triumphant or trying, and everything in-between, we should be not only showing our gratitude to God, but our lives should also be accurately portraying what God has for us as well.

The Old Testament is filled with so many lessons of how people did or did not follow God. In 2 Chronicles 20, the people are desperate. Knowing that three different army nations are coming against the Israelites, it seems natural that the king would be “terrified of this news,” (2 Chronicles 20:3a, NIV). But, instead of responding with the human flesh, King Jehoshaphat “begged the Lord for guidance. He also ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting” (2 Chronicles 20:3b, NIV). When tough times come, would we respond the same way?

Then, King Jehoshaphat went deeper with God by praying. When troubles come, how often do our prayers go up? However, we need to have balance and not just pray when times are rough. Giving credit to God for all blessings we receive should also be a part of our daily routine.

Jahaziel was the man who spoke the encouragement that I want to share with you.

From 2 Chronicles 20:15-17 from the NIV, the text reads: “He said, ‘Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow, march out against them. You will find them coming up through the ascent of Ziz at the end of the valley that opens into the wilderness of Jeruel. But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!’”

When we are faithful to God, our encouragement will speak to the kings of this world to do what is right in times of adversity. What are your words saying today? So, whether you have a sunny day or you are in the storm, may we all be found faithfully following God through it all!