In this passage, Israel’s mistake was leaving for battle without the ark of God (representing His Presence). But this mistake uncovered an even greater error. God had become only an afterthought in their lives, a last resort. He was not God to them, and they did not honor Him. They went about making plans without consulting Him and His Presence did not go with them. This led to the death of 30,000 soldiers.

But we see a difference in another king. In 2 Chronicles 20, king Jehoshaphat, who after hearing news of an approaching enemy, set himself to seek the Lord. He was intentional in his actions and even went further to proclaim a fast throughout Judah. The whole assembly of men, wives, children and little ones stood before the Lord and cried out to Him. They said – “If disaster comes upon us – sword, judgment, pestilence or famine – we will stand before this temple and in Your presence (for Your name is in this temple), and cry out to You in our affliction, and You will hear and save.” (vs 9) God answered them saying, ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.’ ” (vs 15)  

God desires to fight our battles. He desires to show Himself strong on our behalf. His Presence must go with us, but this is conditional. He will show us secret things in hidden places, and prove His covenant to us if we fear (reverence) Him. Do we pursue Him enough through prayer, fasting and reading His word to invoke His presence? It is the heart which pants after Him like a deer pants after the water brook, that causes His head to turn. 

This Christmas season seek Him and draw nearer to Christ. In seeking, He will be found. He wants to demonstrate His love, mercy and compassion upon all those who will come to Him. Don’t go another day or take another step without His Presence. 

                             

Remember the intent of God’s promise to us - Jesus, Emmanuel, God with us. He wants to be there for you.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I thank You that in Jesus I can be changed from one degree of glory to another. Help me to be sober minded so that I can accurately assess the things that bring You glory and the things I do that embarrass You. Help me to never bring shame to the mighty name of Jesus. Help me not to depend on tradition or my own way of thinking, but to rely on You day to day in ways that keep Your living water flowing to me, in me, and through me to others around me. Shine through me Lord Jesus! In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

As you spend time with God right now, prepare and take His presence with you as you interact with others today and tomorrow. Don’t get caught up in worldly disagreements, which so often involve gossip, selfishness, and pride. Godliness with contentment is great gain.