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Alaska. Photo by Charles F. Stanley.
Daily Devotion

The Power of Corporate Prayer

When we listen, fast, and pray, we may see God work in ways we didn’t expect.

2 Chronicles 20:1-30

When Jehoshaphat saw trouble looming, the first thing he did was turn to God. He proclaimed a fast throughout Judah, and people came from everywhere to seek the Lord together. By calling for both fasting and prayer, the king acknowledged that the crisis demanded complete dependence on God.

Though Jehoshaphat was king, he recognized his limitations and sought help. He could have relied on his position or military might, but instead he called on his people for prayerful support. Sometimes we feel uncomfortable asking others to pray for us, but one of the wisest things we can do in difficult times is to come before the Lord with other believers. The body of Christ depends on this kind of cooperation.

When the people of Judah gathered, God provided a solution through a prophet. Jehoshaphat was humble enough to listen and wise enough to follow (vv. 18-20). As a result, the Israelites were saved without drawing a weapon. Because their humble king listened, they witnessed God’s remarkable victory (vv. 22-30).

We must attune our ears to God’s voice. Sometimes He speaks through unexpected people and says things we don’t expect to hear. But He will provide solutions if we’re willing to heed His words.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 16-18