"GOD'S METHOD OF VICTORY"
I. THE PROBLEM
A. Judah was being invaded by-a confederacy of nations.
1. They were hopelessly outnumbered.
2. There were no human solutions.
3. They became dismayed and terrified.
4. Their plight was overwhelming.
B. Judah was weak militarily. "We have no might against this great company" (no human resources or reserves to call upon) - vs.12.
C. Judah was at their wit's end - "neither know we what to do."
II. THE PROCEDURE vs.3.
A. "Set himself to seek the Lord."
B. Proclaimed a fast.
C. Gathered the people together.
D. They prayed - vs.6.
1. Recognized greatness of God.
a. Dwelled in heaven.
b. Ruled over all kingdoms of heathen.
c. Power + might in His hands.
d. None can withstand Him.
2. Recognized past victories - vs.7.
a. Drove out inhabitants of land.
b. Promised it to Abraham "forever."
c. Reminded God of promise to Solomon after dedication of temple - vs.9.
III. GOD'S ANSWER.
A. Don't fear or be dismayed - not your battle.
B. Tomorrow face the issue - go down against them.
C. Don't fight.
D. Set yourself - stand still and see.
E. There are actually God's methods.
1. Don't fear or be dismayed at the problem.
a. Not your battle.
b. How beat we get trying to fight God's battles.
2. Face the issue honestly.
a. We try to run from the issue or ignore it.
b. "The situation is overwhelming" "nothing I can do."
3. Set yourself and stand still.
a. Set yourself on God's promises.
b. Stand still, quit running around trying to find the answers.
4. See the salvation of the Lord.
a. Watch God work:
1. He can change lives.
2. He can change attitudes.
3. Believe it or not, He can do it without your help.
4. Your getting involved is just getting in His way and slowing the victory.
IV. THE RESULTS.
A. They went out and faced the enemy.
B. They began to sing and praise the Lord.
1. Faith in action.
2. Satan has had you in a hole so long he has you believing there is no solution.
C. As they sang and praised God set ambushments against their enemies and destroyed them.