Seek His Face Always

"Look to the Lord and His strength; seek his face always." Psalm 105:4 hangs in my kitchen, right by my kitchen window. A very talented friend of mine (thanks Miriam!) calligraphied it for me years ago, and the verse was brought to my mind again today. Isn't it funny how some things are right under your nose, every day, and you don't notice them until the time (or is it God?) warrants so?

I came across that verse in my bible, tonite, as I was reflecting on Jehoshaphat and some wise words that he said. Jehoshaphat was one of the many kings of Judah. I don't know alot about him, but from what I can tell, although not perfect, he was known for having a heart that was devoted to following the ways of the Lord. You can find out more about him in 2 Chronicles. What I am drawn to about Jehoshaphat is his instant desire to seek the Lord.

In 2 Chronicles 20 we see that a vast army was approaching Jehoshaphat and his people. Upon hearing this and being alarmed, he immediately inquired of the Lord, gathering his people and seek help from the Lord. He stood up in the assembly of the people and cried out to the Lord, praising Him and recalling what the Lord had done and His promises. At the end of the prayer, after pleading with the Lord for deliverance from the enemy, he says "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 upon you." I love that!

The rest of the story is quite remarkable. The Spirit of the Lord comes and proclaims "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's ...you will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah of Jerusalem." As the people sang and praised the Lord with "Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever" the Lord set ambushes and the enemy was defeated.

So it is for us, the battle that we wage is not ours, but God's. Although it sometimes may feel otherwise, let us, too, seek His face and say with Jehoshaphat "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." And then, as we give thanks to the Lord, let us take up our positions, stand firm and see the deliverance of the Lord. It may not happen at that very moment (or maybe it will!) but as we walk keeping our eyes focused on Him I am confident that we will know of His love that endures forever.

Look to the Lord and His strength, dear reader, seek His face always.