21 Days of Fasting and Prayer - Heaven Come Downಮಾದರಿ

We’ve all had moments in life where it feels like the odds are stacked against us. Maybe you’re in one of those moments right now. Or maybe you entered this 21-day fast asking God to do something that feels impossible.

Take heart—because we serve a God who delights in doing the impossible. And He responds powerfully when His people pray and fast.

One of the most remarkable examples of this comes from Jehoshaphat, king of Judah from around 870 to 848 BC. He was a godly leader, but even the godliest leaders face overwhelming challenges.

Jehoshaphat received terrifying news. A massive army—made up of three nations—was marching toward Judah. Scholars estimate this coalition may have totaled hundreds of thousands of fierce, battle-tested warriors.

He had every reason to panic. But look at what he did instead:

“Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.” —2 Chronicles 20:3–4 (NIV)

Jehoshaphat didn’t rely on strategy, strength, or alliances. His first response was prayer and fasting. And he called the entire nation to join him.

As the armies approached, the people of Judah didn’t fight. They fasted.
As the enemy advanced, the people of Judah didn’t run. They worshiped.

And as they lifted their voices in praise, God moved, and what happened next was nothing short of miraculous:

“As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir… and they were defeated.” (2 Chronicles 20:22)

God caused the enemy armies to turn on each other. Judah didn’t have to draw a sword—the Lord fought the battle for them. And when it was over, there was so much plunder it took three full days to gather it all. What began as a crisis ended in miraculous victory and unexpected blessing.

It’s another amazing example of the faithfulness and power of God, no matter the size of the battle we may face. But there’s a crucial element to this passage that we can’t overlook—the people praised BEFORE the breakthrough. They lifted their voices in worship before they saw God move. There was praise on their lips long before there was plunder in their hands. That’s what faith looks like. That’s what trust sounds like. And that’s the kind of heart God responds to.

As we continue in this season of prayer and fasting, take this to heart: whatever battle you’re walking through—praise Him. Whatever breakthrough you’re believing for—trust Him. Don’t wait for the answer to celebrate. Worship Him today, knowing that He is still the God who goes before His people and triumphs over the enemy.