Message for July 7, 2019 from Pastor Shirley

        Like a pop up thunderstorm on a beautiful summer day unexpectedly things can happen, and it seems out of nowhere.  We are walking in His Word. Our heart is devoted to the ways of the Lord. Out of nowhere a “pop up”. Why me?  Why now? What do I do?

       The Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles about a King named Jehoshaphat. Verses 17:3-9 tells us, “The Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the earlier ways of his father David. He did not seek the Baals, but sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments, and not according to the practices of Israel. Therefore the Lord established the kingdom in his hand”.  The Lord established the kingdom under Jehoshaphat control; so that he had great wealth and honor. His heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord.  Then a “a pop up”. In 2 Chronicles we read that a message came to Jehoshaphat that a great multitude was coming against him. The first thing Jehosphahat did was call the people together to a fast and prayer.  2 Chronicles 20:4 So [the people of] Judah gathered together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from all the cities of Judah to seek the Lord [longing for Him with all their heart].  Verse 14-16 tells us that the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, and he began to prophesy to the people.  This is what the Lord says to you: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army.  For the battle is not yours, but God’s.  You will not have to fight this battle.  Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

      Whatever “pop up” has come along in your life, this is your word today.  “Be not afraid or dismayed for the battle is not yours, but God’s.  Remember your position in Me.  Yes, stand firm and see the deliverance I will give you.  I, the Lord, say to you again, “Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged.”