Ushering in a Fantastic Victory Through Praise

“When they began singing and praising, the LORD set up ambushes against the sons of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; so they were routed.”

2 Chronicles 20:22

Dear Kids,

There is something about praising God that ushers in victory. Difficulties often drag us down until we are wallowing in self-pity and defeat. From this low position we lose sight of the truth and Who and what is most important. But when we lift our hands and voices up in praise our perspective changes. The focus turns from the problem to the Problem-solver. And that is often when the tide turns and victory is realized.

A Mighty Army Attacks

King Jehoshaphat trembled in fear after receiving the report of the mighty army coming against his people. Immediately he turned his attention to seek help from the Lord. He petitioned God on behalf of Judah reminding Him of all He had done on their behalf in the past and asking for God’s deliverance in the present situation.

Suddenly the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the temple Levites and he encouraged the king with a word from the Lord. “Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but God’s,” he said. “You need not fight this battle on your own. Stand and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf.”

Gaining Victory by Praising God

With great gratitude and courage Jehoshaphat arose early and addressed his troops. “Put your trust in the Lord. Today we will give Him praise.”

The people sang and extolled the Lord with loud and joyful voices, and in response God set up ambushes against the enemy. Not one of the foes escaped that day. All of the opposing army was completely destroyed. And from that day on the dread of God was on all of the neighboring kingdoms when they heard how God had fought against the enemies of Israel.

Two Responses to Trials

God’s people regularly encounter battles in the course of living. The Bible makes it clear that fiery trials come upon us to test our faith. This expected suffering produces endurance and contributes to our growth. But there are two responses to these trials. We can allow them to beat us down and defeat us, or we can acknowledge God’s good purpose and turn to Him for victory.

In fighting a recent battle of faith I remembered the story of Jehoshaphat and how God responded to the praise and singing of his people. It got me thinking about my personal response to the trials of life. Introspection showed me that my heaviness lingered from focusing on the problem at hand. So I decided to change my tactics.

In an effort to emulate the example of Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah I determined to spend the day focusing on things for which I could praise God. I spoke these blessings out loud as they came to mind, along with reciting them in text form to some trusted friends. The change in my spirit amazed me. Through the power of praise my heart changed.

Choosing to Focus on the Problem-Solver

Circumstances don’t always immediately revert and trials don’t automatically diminish, but the attacks of Satan in the midst of the mess lessen when we choose to focus on the Problem-solver instead of the problem.

There will always be battles. There will always be foes. But don’t be dismayed. Instead count it all joy and keep on rejoicing! Sing and give praise to the One who fights our battles for us. It will lift up your head, strengthen your faith, and usher in a fantastic victory.

Love,

Mama

Read 2 Chronicles 20 for the story of Jehoshaphat’s battle.

More posts on praise:

How to Find Courage When You are Afraid

Combating Discouragement With Prayer