July 18

In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat receives terrifying news: a vast army is approaching. Outnumbered and overwhelmed, his response is not military strategy but spiritual humility. He gathers the people, proclaims a fast, and prays, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (v. 12)

This kind of surrender is not weakness—it is the gateway to God’s strength. The Lord responds through a prophet: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.” (v. 15) As the people worship, God fights for them, turning enemies against each other and bringing complete victory without Judah lifting a sword.

Contrast this with 2 Kings 1, where King Ahaziah faces personal crisis and sends messengers—not to God, but to a false idol. His decision to seek answers elsewhere leads to judgment. His story reminds us that where we turn in crisis reveals the true condition of our hearts.

Psalm 20 complements these passages beautifully: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” (v. 7) Victory is not in human strength but in surrender to God's authority.

In Matthew 3, we meet John the Baptist calling people to repentance and preparing the way for Jesus. His message is simple yet bold: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Repentance is not just turning away from sin—it’s turning toward the God who saves, restores, and leads.

From Jehoshaphat’s prayer to John’s call, the message is clear: Victory, peace, and purpose come through surrender. When we turn to God with our eyes, our hearts, and our trust, He does more than we could ask or imagine.

To receive daily One Year Bible devotionals directly to your email, sign up here.