At some point, every leader will face an insurmountable crisis.
Whether it’s an unexpected financial downturn, a sudden loss of key personnel, or public criticism that threatens your reputation, crises test your leadership skills and your faith. In such moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain.
Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, faced a crisis that would have caused even the strongest leaders to crumble. In 2 Chronicles 20, we learn how he dealt with an overwhelming enemy attack. His story is not just a historical account but a timeless example of how Christian leaders today can draw principles for responding to crises with faith and wisdom. His actions and the outcomes are relevant to modern leadership, demonstrating the enduring power of faith in guiding leaders through crises.
Jehoshaphat’s Crisis
Jehoshaphat’s crisis began with alarming news: a vast army, comprised of the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites, was advancing against Judah (2 Chronicles 20:1–2). The sheer size of the coalition made resistance seem impossible. The odds were stacked against him, and fear naturally set in. This was not just a minor setback, but a crisis of existential proportions, testing the very core of his leadership and faith.
Modern leaders often face similar challenges—not necessarily armies but circumstances that feel equally daunting. Whether it’s a collapsing business deal or a moral failure within the organization, these moments test your resolve and require decisive action. What sets Jehoshaphat apart is how he faced a crisis and responded to it.
Jehoshaphat’s Response
1. He Turned to God in Prayer
Jehoshaphat’s first reaction was not to muster his army but to seek the Lord. He called for a nationwide fast and led his people in prayer (2 Chronicles 20:3–4). He didn’t rely on his own strength or wisdom; instead, he acknowledged his dependence on God.
This is a vital lesson for Christian leaders. When crises hit, the first response should not be panic or planning but prayer. By turning to God first, we demonstrate trust in His ability to guide us through the storm.
2. He Acknowledged God’s Sovereignty
In his prayer, Jehoshaphat reminded himself and his people of God’s power and faithfulness. “O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you” (2 Chronicles 20:6). He also reminded God of His promises and confessed their helplessness, saying, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12).
This act of humbly acknowledging God’s sovereignty is critical in any crisis. Leaders often feel pressure to have all the answers, but Jehoshaphat’s example shows that admitting our limitations and focusing on God’s promises is the wisest course of action.
3. He Trusted God’s Word Through Others
God answered Jehoshaphat’s prayer through Jahaziel, a prophet, who assured the king and his people that the battle was not theirs but God’s (2 Chronicles 20:15–17). This promise gave them the confidence to face the enemy without fear.
As leaders, we must remain open to God’s guidance through His Word and the wise counsel of others. Surround yourself with trusted advisors who can speak truth into your situation, and rely on God’s promises to guide your decisions.
4. He Acted in Faith
After hearing God’s promise, Jehoshaphat didn’t just sit back; he led his people into action. He appointed singers to lead the army, praising God for His steadfast love before the battle even began (2 Chronicles 20:21). This act of faith demonstrated his trust in God’s deliverance.
Faith without action is dead (James 2:17). In times of crisis, leaders must move forward with confidence, even when the outcome is uncertain. Trust God to work through your faithful obedience.
5. He Gave Glory to God
When God delivered Judah by turning the enemy forces against one another, the people of Judah didn’t claim credit for the victory. Instead, they returned to Jerusalem with joy, giving thanks and praise to God (2 Chronicles 20:27–28).
As leaders, it’s important to give God the glory for victories. This not only strengthens your faith but also points others to God as the ultimate source of strength and wisdom.
Faith and Dependence on God: The Foundation of Leadership in Crisis
At the heart of Jehoshaphat’s response to his crisis lies the principle of faith and dependence on God. When faced with the overwhelming threat of an advancing army, Jehoshaphat did not rely on his military strength, strategic planning, or alliances. Instead, he sought God through prayer, acknowledged His sovereignty, and trusted His promises.
This principle is foundational for Christian leaders because it reorients our perspective during crises. Instead of focusing on the size of the problem or our limited resources, faith calls us to focus on God’s infinite power and wisdom. Dependence on God is not a passive stance but an active trust that He will guide, empower, and deliver according to His will.
5 Lessons for Christian Leaders
1. Seek God First
Jehoshaphat’s immediate reaction was to pray and call his people to fast (2 Chronicles 20:3–4). This demonstrates that true dependence on God begins with turning to Him as the first course of action. As leaders, prioritizing prayer during a crisis not only reflects a deep trust in God’s ability to intervene and guide, but also empowers us with the reassurance that we are not alone in our leadership journey.
2. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty
In his prayer, Jehoshaphat declared God’s rule over all nations and His unmatched power (2 Chronicles 20:6). Leaders dependent on God recognize His ultimate authority, even when circumstances seem chaotic. This mindset fosters a sense of peace and clarity, knowing that the crisis is under God’s control and we can focus on our role as leaders.
3. Trust God’s Promises
Jehoshaphat acted on God’s promise delivered through Jahaziel: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15). Faith enables leaders to stand firm, not because the path is clear but because God’s Word is trustworthy.
4. Lead with Worship and Faith
Jehoshaphat led his people in worship before the battle even began (2 Chronicles 20:21). This act of faith demonstrated his confidence in God’s deliverance. Worship becomes a powerful declaration of trust in God and can inspire those we lead to adopt the same faith-filled perspective.
5. Give Glory to God
When the crisis was resolved and victory was achieved, Jehoshaphat and the people returned to Jerusalem to praise God (2 Chronicles 20:27–28). A leader’s dependence on God is magnified when they give Him the glory for their successes, reinforcing the source of their strength and wisdom.
Conclusion
Crises are inevitable, but how we respond to them defines our leadership and faith. Jehoshaphat’s example reminds us that when faced with overwhelming challenges, the first step is to seek God, trust His promises, and act in faith. By doing so, we not only navigate the crisis but also glorify God and inspire others to trust Him.
Remember Jehoshaphat’s words the next time you face a crisis: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12). Fix your eyes on God, and He will guide you to victory.
Action Steps for Leaders
To help you apply these lessons in your leadership, here are five actionable steps based on Jehoshaphat’s example:
- Pray First – Make prayer your immediate response when a crisis arises, not your last resort.
- Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty – Reflect on scriptures that remind you of God’s power and faithfulness.
- Seek Wise Counsel – Surround yourself with godly advisors who can help you discern God’s will.
- Take Faithful Action – Step forward in obedience, trusting God with the outcome.
- Celebrate God’s Faithfulness – When the crisis passes, take time to thank God and share His faithfulness with others.
Discussion Questions
Use these questions to reflect on or discuss Jehoshaphat’s leadership principles with your team or study group:
- What is your typical response to a crisis, and how can you align it more closely with Jehoshaphat’s example?
- How can prayer play a larger role in your leadership during difficult times?
- What steps can you take to remind your team or family of God’s sovereignty in challenging situations?
- How do you discern and act on God’s guidance amid uncertainty?
- What are some practical ways to give God the glory after a crisis has been resolved?
More Articles
I have written several articles on dependence on God. You can find them by typing ‘Dependence on God’ in the search bar. Meanwhile, here are a few of the most recent articles.
- #599: Divine Intervention: 6 Lessons for Christian Business Leaders
- #596: Nothing is Impossible: Standing Courageously with God’s Hand Upon Us
- #590: Leading with Loaves and Fishes: Six Lessons in Christian Leadership
- #548: Do You Know the Power of “I Will Be With You” in Your Life?
- #524: Have You Given Up on The Promise of God Prematurely?
Join the Conversation
As always, questions and comments are welcome. Which of the five lessons from Jehoshaphat’s leadership through a crisis resonates the most with you? Why?
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Category: Personal Development | Dependence on God
When I read about giving glory to God I think of people who casually say “thank God” about this or that, but it’s an expression more than an actual acknowledgement to divine intervention. I’ve probably said it casually too, but these days I try to express true appreciation and praise when I know and feel that God has blessed me in some way.
I’ve been casual in my thanks to God as well, John. What convicted me as I studied this passage is how Jehoshaphat, from the beginning to the end of this crisis, had his focus on God. I all too often head out under my own power and check in with God after I get started–not a good way to start dealing with a crisis.