July 23, 2026

2 Chronicles 20, when the Ammonites are coming to attack Judah, we read that Jehoshaphat "set himself to seek the Lord". The word "set" is versatile with multiple meanings, many adding valuable context to this verse.

to place (oneself) in position to start running in a race

to place with care or deliberate purpose and with relative stability

to direct with fixed attention

to adjust (a device and especially a measuring device) to a desired position

to put in order for use

to cause to become firm or solid

These are only a few of the 40+ definitions Webster has for "set", each adding a slightly different, but accurate angle on Jehoshaphat's action.

As part of his initiative to "find the Lord", Jehoshaphat called a nationwide fast and then went to the temple to address the people. Remember, they are seeking the Lord, and where better to find someone than in their house? "For thy name is in this house".

Jehoshaphat then gives a beautiful prayer to the Lord and ends with verse 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."

Because of the actions taken to find the Lord (setting, fasting, going to the temple, and praying) the Spirit of the Lord feel upon one of the Levites who prophesied that the Lord would spare them. Then, to reinforce the people's faith in the prophesy, Jehoshaphat declared "Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper". What a fantastic admonition to A) trust the Lord, and B) trust the prophet, who speaks for the Lord.

What happens next? The invaders fight among themselves and are all killed - the Lord kept His word.

After this miracle, they didn't wait until they were home to give thanks, they blessed the name of the Lord in a valley that became known as Berachah, which stems from the Hebrew root Barak, meaning "to kneel," symbolizing the exchange of divine favor and the recognition of God as the source of all gifts.

After they returned home where did they go? Straight to the temple to praise and worship God.

We must apply the scriptures to ourselves. This chapter outlines a perfect pattern of seeking the Lord, fasting, prayer, temple attendance, listening to the prophet, trusting the Lord, and giving thanks. As we follow this pattern, the Lord will bless us. He will fight the battles we cannot if we but keep our eyes on Him.