Battling with Praise
by Heather Tietz
2 Chronicles 20:20
They rose early in the morning and went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. As they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the LORD your God, so you will be established! Believe his prophets, so you will prosper.”
King Jehoshaphat led his army into the desert to face their enemy — a “great multitude” of several different armed forces all joining against Judah.
Here, in the wasteland, instead of calling his men to arms, instead of giving them his master plan for offense or defense, he encourages their belief. He bids them make faith their armor. To solidify his words, to help his soldiers rely on the Almighty to fight their impending battle, he sends a choir before the men (2 Chronicles 20:22)!
Yes! King Jehoshaphat organizes a praise team to march before the soldiers, leading them in worship!
How does the enemy respond?
The Ammonites, the Moabites, and the Edomites, all in pursuit of destroying God’s people, fall upon one other. The enemy destroys itself. The battle is won with weapons of praise!
God’s praise is powerful. It encourages hearts. It demolishes fear. It sends evil fleeing.
Stir up some praise in your day.
Reflection
What battle do I have to fight? I will arm myself with praise — listen to Christian music; sing my own song; dance to the Lord; recite Psalms. With God’s help, I will make a battle plan today.
Prayer
Heavenly Lord, I pray that You will strengthen my belief. Help me go through my day singing Your praises. Please fight my battles for me as you did for King Jehoshaphat. In Jesus’ perfect name I pray, Amen.
