Identity Before Strategy

Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever?  And they dwelt therein, and have built thee a sanctuary therein for thy name, saying,  If, when evil cometh upon us, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name is in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help. (2 Chronicles 20:7-9)

Most of the time, a crisis doesn’t warn you before it’s coming. It shows up unexpectedly in your life, often when you least expect it. During those moments, many people blame God or question themselves. Jehoshaphat understood something that many believers forget during crises: identity must come before strategy. Before Judah did anything, they reminded themselves of who they were and of who God had already proven Himself to be for them.

Jehoshaphat didn’t cry out as a victim or in desperation. He knew that God had a personal relationship with the people. “Are not thou our God?” he asked. He was reminding both God and the people that they had “built thee a sanctuary” for God and for His name. They didn’t just build homes and walls; they were creating a place for God to dwell and be honored. Jehoshaphat’s prayer shows an understanding of what it means to follow God. He described himself and his people as “the seed of Abraham Thy friend.” This is key.

Jehoshaphat didn’t say that Abraham was just a servant or a follower; he was God’s friend. Friendship means trust and access. Judah wasn’t praying, “God, please notice us!” They said, “You’ve already claimed us.” They didn’t focus on how powerful the enemy was; instead, they emphasized their connection to and love for God. They honored His name and recalled His protection, which gave them the strength to obey and face any challenge ahead.

Practical Application

When pressure mounts, remember your relationship with God. Don’t beg like an orphan; pray to God like a son or daughter. That kind of prayer is bold and honorable, reminding God of His covenant and yourself of who your God is.

2 Chronicles 6:28; 1 Kings 8:33