What Do You Do When You Don’t Know What To Do

First of all, on behalf of the SBC of Virginia, thank you for your partnership in the Gospel. Over these past months, ministry (although faced with unforeseen challenges) has, and is, taking place. Churches are revitalizing, pastors and church planters are pressing on, leaders are sharing ideas and encouraging one another, students are preparing for ministry, and missions is continuing in the midst of a global pandemic. But this is a challenging time to lead.

How does God’s Word encourage us and are there leaders in the Bible that serve as examples for us to learn from as we lead during times of crisis? I’d like to share with you a few thoughts from one of my favorite examples of an Old Testament leader who faced a crisis.

How do we respond when we don’t know what to do as a leader? 2 Chronicles 20 offers us some encouragement and example as we lead in times of a crisis.

Resolve to Seek Help from the Lord.

2 Chronicles 20:3 tells us that King Jehoshaphat was afraid. Situations can prompt fear, worry, anxiety – all kinds of responses. We see Jehoshaphat do something that many of the kings of Israel and Judah failed to do: Seek the Lord. Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!” (1 Chron 16:11)

Recall the Sovereign Power of the Lord.

In verse 5 and following, we read Jehoshaphat’s prayer. I love that the Bible is a record of the heartfelt prayers of people. It strikes me that he focuses on the fact that God reigns. The Lord rules overall. I need to remember that God is never surprised or stumped by the issues, challenges, and situations I face. The Lord reigns!

Realize the Battle Belongs to the Lord.

In verse 15, Jahaziel tells them that they are not fighting this battle or facing this situation alone – the battle belongs to the Lord! When we are serving the Lord, we are going to face spiritual battles. I need time in God’s Word and with God’s people to remember that the battle belongs to the Lord. Psalm 121:1–2, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.”

Respond with Heartfelt Praise for the Lord.

You can read the chapter for yourself to see how they respond. Simply put, they praise and worship the Lord. We are inundated with news, receive all kinds of input, face myriads of decisions. I can praise the Lord for His steadfast love, His constant presence, and His awesome power.

We are prayerful for you. We encourage you to pray for one another. I know I need your prayers. Praise the Lord – He is the answer to our prayer.

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20–21

Your brother in Christ,

BRIAN AUTRY