Walking in His Ways

Posted on October 25, 2013 by Mark Shields

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The next two kings of Jerusalem had no desire to live the right way and be on the right side of history. We learn that there are consequences for not walking in the ways of God. 

Reading in 2 Chronicles 21-22, there were long-term negative effects as a result of Jehoshaphat’s decision to make a marriage alliance with the house of Ahab. His oldest son Jehoram took over as king and married one of the daughter’s of Ahab. Then another son named Ahaziah took bad advice from his mother who was the daughter of Ahab and the others within the house of Ahab.

A series of blows were delivered to the kings in the line of David. Terrible decisions were made after following bad counsel, there were murders of the royal family members, and there was illness. The whole line of David would have been destroyed if not for Jehosheba who was the daughter of king Jehoram. She protected the young future king Joash from being murdered and he kept the line of David in place.

The people were tired of the evil leadership of their kings. When king Jehoram died, no one seemed to care. In fact, no one showed any remorse at all.

This day with God, let’s make sure we plan now to live in such a way that our life impacts others in a good way. In prayer today, let us ask for guidance so that we are on the right side of history by being with God and walking in His ways.

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Gaining the Clear Advantage

Posted on October 24, 2013 by Mark Shields

In reading 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah went to God for help. The benefit was that they were in a position with the clear advantage.

The lesson for me is to do the same; seek God and ask for help to fulfill the purpose He has for me. To set my heart upon being the best I can and getting inspiration by what God has done and will continue to do. Faith gives courage to win spiritual battles over evil.

One side wins and one side looses so this day with God, let us be sure we are on His side and that we push for others to join His team. Let this song give inspiration: We Will Stand – Avalon and Russ Taff.


The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all. – Psalm 103:19

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Faith Inspires True Courage

Posted on October 23, 2013 by Mark Shields

Reading in 2 Chronicles 20:14-37, the people of Judah had assembled and Jahaziel stands up to tell them what the Lord has said to him which is to not be afraid or discouraged about the vast army coming at them because He will be with them. God had spoken to Jahaziel with instructions and the people believed in the plan. They responded with worship and praise to God. Then set out with faith to carry out the plan.

Faith inspires true courage. King Jehoshaphat stood in front of the people of Judah to inspire and give courage to his people as they set out to face the enemy. They then started singing and praising the Lord as they headed to battle. While doing this, the Lord was already setting up events for victory; giving advantages to Judah and even confusing the enemies so they were destroying each other.

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The Lord gave them victory. At this point in history, the other kingdoms began to notice that God was on Judah’s side so they were afraid to attack them. There was peace and rest for Judah at this time in history but the people again didn’t put their total heart and soul on God so there was mediocrity instead of excellence in their future.

This day with God, pray for protection from evil and victory over temptation. Note how the Bible gives great advice and have assurance that there is victory in Christ to win any battle that life brings.

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In the Center of Your Life

Posted on October 22, 2013 by Mark Shields

The lesson for me in reading 2 Chronicles 2-:1-13 is to put God in the center of your life. In times of struggle, pray every day and trust God every minute. See difficult times as an opportunity for God to grow your faith, add to your patience, and build your character. 

Let cheerfulness wash every disappointment, joy dissolve every sorrow, and love ease every pain. This day with God, let this song give a lift as you face the challenges ahead: Center of It – Chris August.


 

By standing firm you will win life. – Luke 21:19

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How to Handle a Crisis

Posted on October 21, 2013 by Mark Shields

Jehoshaphat does three things when he receives news of a new military threat as pointed out in 2 Chronicles 20:1-13. He first inquired of the Lord and then proclaimed a fast for all Judah (v. 3). The third thing he did was stand before the people to pray for safety and help against the new threats.

King Jehoshaphat saw the current crisis as a faith building opportunity. Rather than let fear take over, he turned a negative into a positive by seeking God and praying for solutions.

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This day with God, I admit that I’m powerless to face certain situations. I don’t know what to do at times but my eyes are upon the Lord and I have faith that He is big enough to get me through any crisis faced in life.

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