2 Chronicles 20:20 Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem! Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful.”

I have loved this story for a long time. The person who gave the detailed and accurate prophecy was not normally a prophet, not even an anonymous one such as appear in various places in the Old Testament, but was rather a Levite who was a very ordinary person in the temple staff. (verse 14) However, the attitude of the king and the assembled people was such that they recognized a Word from the Lord when they heard it. It is notable that Jehosha­phat didn’t say, “Have faith in me,” he directed the people to God. This was entirely in character with how he had been living to this point, as came out yesterday. Even after this, instead of “being king,” he consulted with others before deciding how they were to respond to what God had said. What he said in this verse is manifestly true. God worked on behalf of Judah so powerfully that all the surrounding nations were afraid to lift a finger against them after that. (verses 29-30) Humility and obedient faith are certainly the way to go!

This is precisely where we are. Yesterday I called the believers to fast and pray, explaining that fasting isn’t trying to manipulate God, but is rather spiritual warfare against the demonic forces that try to block God’s will from being done. Then we had a delicious, abundant church lunch! However, I had already “fasted” computer that morning, and began a conventional fast from suppertime. Indications are, God is already working! We have had many assurances that the senior-care facility is God’s idea, so spiritual warfare against everything that would block that is entirely appropriate. I feel like God’s Word got through to people powerfully yesterday, and I am deeply grateful. The point now is not to relax, but to press forward in obedience to God, so that His purposes may be accomplished on His schedule for His glory.

Father, thank You for all You are doing. Thank You for calling me back to fasting. It’s been too long! Help me hear You accurately and respond obediently, bringing others along with me and not trying to be a lone wolf. May we together move into all that You have planned for us, for the salvation of many and for Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!