The Bible has recorded several prayers by the saints. King Jehoshaphat when facing the army mentioned in his prayer: “And now behold, the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir, whom you would not let Israel invade when they came from the land of Egypt, and whom they avoided and did not destroy— behold, they reward us by coming to drive us out of your possession, which you have given us to inherit.” (II Chronicles 20:10,11)
Humility: Jehoshaphat prayed humbly, just like a child would complain to parents about a bully. These nations were bullying Israel for no reason. Probably, the bullies wanted to show that they were powerful and could intimidate small or weaker nations. The prayer of Jehoshaphat expressed the desperate and horrific situation they were in. His prayer was the expression of dependence on God alone.
Historical understanding: Jehoshaphat gained the historical understanding from the Scripture and other sources. God instructed the delivered slaves, who were wanderers, that they would soon become inheritors of the Promised Land. The land was provided from Mount Seir for Esau’s descendants, Ar was given to descendants of Lot the Moabites, and Rephaim or Zamzummim was given to descendants of Lot the Ammonites. (Deuteronomy 2:4,8-9; 19-20) As instructed by the Lord, the Israelites did not fight with them. Now, they have come together, conspired, and are rewarding evil for good. In other words, the wicked kings were challenging the Sovereign authority of God.
Attributes of God: Jehoshaphat understood God is righteous. He will not allow the wicked, ungrateful, and evil nations to defeat them. Especially, Israel should not be punished for their obedience. In not attacking the geographical regions allotted to other nations. God is faithful to His people and will fulfill His promises of protection and prosperity. Jehoshaphat knew God as good, just, righteous, faithful, and rewards obedience.
Valley of Beracah: God granted victory that the defiant, arrogant army became corpses and Israel took spoil for three days. The next day they assembled in the Valley of Beracah giving glory to God. (II Chronicles 20:26)
Do I pray with biblical and historical understanding?