He Fortified in a Time of Peace

The kingdom was quiet under [Asa]. 6 And he built fortified cities in Judah, for the land had rest; he had no war in those years, because the Lord had given him rest. 7 Therefore he said to Judah, “Let us build these cities and make walls around them, and towers, gates, and bars, while the land is yet before us, because we have sought the Lord our God; we have sought Him, and He has given us rest on every side.” So they built and prospered. 8 And Asa had an army of three hundred thousand from Judah who carried shields and spears, and from Benjamin two hundred and eighty thousand men who carried shields and drew bows; all these were mighty men of valor (2 Ch 14:5–8).

What To Do When You Don't Know What To Do

King Hezekiah of Judah experienced “double trouble.” Isaiah 37 and 38 tells how his tiny nation was surrounded by the wicked Assyrians AND he was given a death sentence.

WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO PRAY:

  1. Pray in partnership, 37:4

  2. Pray without partiality, 37:14

  3. Pray in private, 38:2

  4. Pray with passion, 38:3.

Virtues

As suggested by Michael Balchan

  1. Wisdom - Know the game that you’re playing and how to play it well.

  2. Self-mastery - Build good habits. Pause before responding.

  3. Courage - Enables you to take action in the presence of fear.

  4. Love - Being present, connected, genuine, and encouraging.

In addition, Michael shared five virtues from positive psychology that contribute to a sense of well-being: zest, hope, curiosity, gratitude, and love. Yes, love is so important that it makes both lists.