Topic: For a Breakthrough, Stay Focused on God [RICK WARREN Devotional 7 September 2021]

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For a Breakthrough, Stay Focused on God

BY RICK WARREN — SEPTEMBER 7, 2021

“Jehoshaphat was frightened and prayed to the LORD for guidance.”

2 Chronicles 20:3 (GNT)In a crisis, it’s natural to start explaining to God what’s going on and asking him for help. He wants you to talk to him and pour out your heart to him. But don’t start your prayer by telling God what you need. First, he wants you to focus on him.

When three enemy nations decided to team up against King Jehoshaphat and Israel, the king knew there was no way he could overcome those odds, and so he prayed. His prayer shows you how to start your prayers by focusing on God.

First, remind yourself of God’s greatness.
Jehoshaphat prayed, “O LORD God of our ancestors, you rule in heaven over all the nations of the world. You are powerful and mighty, and no one can oppose you” (2 Chronicles 20:6 GNT).

When you’re praying for something you can’t control, don’t focus on the problem. Focus on God’s greatness. The bigger God gets in your mind, the smaller the problem becomes.

Next, remind yourself of God’s unlimited power.
“When your people Israel moved into this land, you drove out the people who were living here and gave the land to the descendants of Abraham, your friend, to be theirs forever” (2 Chronicles 20:7 GNT).

When you realize that God has all the power in the world, you can just trust him. As you pray, think of all the ways God has helped you, other people, and people in the Bible.

Then, remind God of his promises.
Jehoshaphat reminded God he promised Israel that the land would be theirs forever. God has made promises to you too. In fact, there are thousands of promises for you in the Bible. When your kids remind you of the promises you’ve made to them, it can be frustrating. But God loves to have his Word quoted back to him.

Finally, ask God for a breakthrough.
Jehoshaphat said of the attacking forces, “Punish them, for we are helpless in the face of this large army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but we look to you for help” (2 Chronicles 20:12 GNT).

Don’t just ask God to bless your life. Focus on him and then tell him the specific thing you need for your breakthrough. Then you’ll see him provide as you pray like Jehoshaphat.

• Who is the first person you talk to when you are facing something that seems out of control? At what point do you bring your concerns to God?
• What is a specific situation in which you need God to give you a breakthrough?
• How can you know what God has promised you in his Word?