Motivation Is Optional

You don’t need to be motivated to get going. Motivation often follows action, not the other way around.

Indeed, this was true of Jehoshaphat. I love saying that name. It is pronounced: ji-ˈhä-sə-fat.

God’s Favor

The kings of Judah and Israel all fall into one of two categories: those who did right and those who did evil in the sight of God. Jehoshaphat was a king of Judah who did what was right in the sight of God. Because of this, Jehoshaphat had God’s favor.

The favor of God did not mean that there were no challenges during Jehoshaphat’s reign. God allows challenges in the lives of his people. No one is excluded. At one point in the story, a vast army from three neighboring nations, Moab, Ammon, and Mount Seir, came against Judah. Not surprisingly, Jehoshaphat was overwhelmed by fear and gathered the people together to ask God for deliverance. He prayed, “For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” 

The reply that came from the prophet of God was a promise that Christians still rely upon today, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.” However, the prophet did not stop there. He went on to say, “…take up your positions; stand firm.” If you do this, then, you will “…see the deliverance the Lord will give you.” 

Don’t Wait For a Miracle

Jehoshaphat could not sit around and wait for a miracle. The prophet commanded him to “Go.” My experience is that, while God is with me, I still have to go and face my challenges, just as the prophet of God told Jehoshaphat: 

“Go out and face them tomorrow and the Lord will be with you.” —2 Chronicles 20:17

Jehoshaphat did as directed. Early on the next morning, they left for the place of the battle. Regardless of his fearfulness, he assembled the people and went out to the battle. As they went, Jehoshaphat’s confidence increased to such a degree that he did something very unusual. He appointed people to sing to the Lord and praise God for the splendor of his holiness. Crazy! They sang! 

Blessings Will Follow

Just as God had promised, when Jehoshaphat and his army entered the valley, the enemy had completely annihilated each other. Judah’s army took three days to sort through the dead bodies and collect the valuables, including gold, silver, and precious jewels. On the fourth day, Jehoshaphat assembled the people in the valley of Berakah, which means blessing, where they praised the Lord. To this day, the valley is called “The Valley of Blessing.”

Learn a lesson from Jehoshaphat–motivation follows action–not the other way around. You need to get going and your confidence and motivation will grow.

“…Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.” —2 Chronicles 20:21

Copyright © 2023 Chuck Locklear

Also, see Victorious Living.