The older I get, the more it appears to me that “normal” is not a place we should wish to reside, but a place with which we’ve grown accustomed. Yet, just because something is familiar doesn’t mean it’s worthy of our returning.

From career choices and relational bond, to deciding insurance plans, how to live on your own, or pay bills, adulting is a challenging time. And with the number of unknown answers to questions piling in my mind, the intrusive thoughts begin to run rampantly wild. Leaving me in a state of confusion, I assume that this is how Jehoshaphat, one of the many Kings of Judah, must have felt in 2 Chronicles chapter 20. 

Approaching a large battle of Ammonites, Jehoshaphat also had fears like we do. But his maturation of concerns had less to do with, “How do I become an adult well?” and more with, “How do I survive this battle?”. 

Yet instead of running away, complaining, freaking out, stressing, or worrying like we’re all guilty of, Jehoshaphat chose to inquire of the Lord even amid his present state of confusion. He decided to seek the sovereignty of holiness rather than entertain his mind with the Russian roulette of hysteria.

In 2 Chronicles 20: 3-4, “Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord” (2 Chronicles 20:3-4, ESV).

Maybe you’re facing a fear that tells you confusion is your new normal. But Christ tells us He is a God of peace even in these uncomfortable states of mind (1 Corinthians 14:33). If we choose to “fast” from our confusion and focus on His clarity, perhaps we will be given the tranquility He’s placed within us all along. What or how are you “fasting” from that will enable you to focus on the Lord? 

Worry less and worship more?

Barely complaining yet always calling on His Name?

Trade in your confusion and replace it with His counsel. 

His State of Mind is worth it. 

Agape, Amber