PRAISE BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the Lord and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, “Give thanks to the Lord, for his steadfast love endures forever.” 2 Chronicles 20:21, ESV
Theme: Even when you don’t know the outcome, worship God before the battles.
UNDER ATTACK
Have you ever had a season where you felt attacked on all sides? There were conflicts in your family, your workplace, your classroom, or even your serving team? There have been times when both my husband and I have been fighting our own separate battles at the same time. Maybe he was called into see the boss; maybe I was struggling with work life balance and felt like I had to justify myself to my boss.
One time that stands out clearly was when Mike, working in the oil field, was called in to see the VP of the company, who apparently flew into town just to meet with him and reprimand him. Mike learned about the meeting and the reason: they thought he might have been sharing company secrets with a competitor! He came to my office, and we found a place to pray, to worship, praise, and seek God before Mike even went to the meeting. We thanked God for His provision of Mike’s job. We praised God for leading and guiding us. We asked for wisdom for Mike as he went to the meeting, and favor and understanding from the Vice President. When Mike was confronted, he explained that the other man, “the competitor,” went to our church. Mike was a deacon, and yes, they had met for coffee, prayer, lunch, or maybe Bible study on several occasions. The outcome? The VP was convicted for rashly listening to unjust accusations and for not likewise living as his own faith dictated.
THIS IS HOW I FIGHT MY BATTLES
The song “This Is How I Fight My Battles” reminds me of our Scripture today. When the strong enemy army approached, King Jehoshaphat sought God’s face and declared a fast. The Spirit of the Lord came upon one man, Jahaziel. “And he said, ‘Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the Lord to you, “Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's”’” (1 Chronicles 20:15, ESV). The King bowed his head, the people rejoiced, then they appointed singers to walk before the army, praising God, and waiting for His deliverance.
During the hardest times of my life—a parent in a hospital, a bitter disappointment in a friend, or a financial crisis I could not see a way to escape—I have learned to turn to God. There have been desperate cries for help and aid, but mostly, there have been songs, or Psalms read out loud to remind me of His goodness and faithfulness.
Make It Personal: Learn to praise, even before you see the victory. Could you do this today in the midst of your current struggle or battle? God inhabits the praises of His people. He is near when we praise Him! Read the story of Jehoshaphat and see how this approach of seeking God, praising Him, and trusting Him with your battle leads to great victory. This in turn leads to more praise...and more reasons to trust and praise Him the next time the enemy attacks.
Pray: Oh Lord, You are great and mighty. Yet You know me and my fears, my needs, and my joys. Before I turn to any other, before I doubt You and distrust Your love for me, help me to turn with my cares and concerns and lay them at Your feet. Help me call upon Your Name and offer my praise to You. “Help my unbelief” when I falter or doubt Your goodness. To You I offer my praise, as I head into the battles ahead of me. I trust You to go before me and be my rear guard. I am hemmed in by Your goodness. In Jesus Name, I come before You and give You my praise. Amen.
Read: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30, Isaiah 52:12, Psalm 139:5, Mark 9:24
Weekly Memory Verse: “Let the godly exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their beds.” Psalm 149:5, ESV