June 21, 2015: SOAP #2026:

Scripture: 2Chronicales (NIV) 20:12 O our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you.

Observation: The ending of King Jehoshaphat’s prayer is “…our eyes are upon you.” He was not just saying that; it was really true. In the beginning of the prayer he addresses the God who dwells in heaven and rules over the nations. God is so powerful and mighty that no one can stand against Him. He mentions great things God had done for them in the past. He mentions the prayers that had been prayed there in the temple. Before closing the prayer, he mentions their need for His help. He closes with “…our eyes are on you.”

Application: May my prayers show that my eyes are on the Lord. May I address the Great Creator with words that indicate how great and powerful He is! May I let Him know that I have not forgotten what He has done for me in the past! May my prayers be more about Him and what He has done than what I need Him to do now. He already knows my need; He would like to hear that I know He is able! Appreciating His ability and willingness to help in the past builds my faith that he will help me now.

Prayer: Jesus, forgive me for taking so much time in my prayer to make sure You understand my problem. You already understand, even better than I! Sometimes my prayers indicate that my eyes are on my problem rather than on You. Forgive me. May my prayers for help should have three parts: 1. appreciation for You and what You have already done for me, 2. a short request for what I need and 3. an expression of dependence on You. Amen