Asa’s Prayer

The Story

King Asa of Judah spent the early years of his reign tearing down idols and calling his people back to God. The land had peace, and Asa used the time to build cities and strengthen his army.

Then Zerah the Ethiopian marched against Judah with an enormous army: a host of a thousand thousand, the Bible says, and three hundred chariots. Asa’s army was much smaller.

The two armies lined up for battle in the valley of Zephathah. And before the fighting began, Asa prayed.

“LORD, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power.” It makes no difference to You whether we’re strong or weak. “Help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee.” We’re leaning on You. And in Your name we go against this multitude. “O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee.”

So the Lord struck the Ethiopians before Asa and Judah, and they fled.

Reflection