A Secret Weapon

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.

James 5:13 esv

In the book of 2 Chronicles we read that Israel was split between the northern kingdom and the southern kingdom. In chapter 20, a couple of the neighboring nations decide they are going to attack Judah, the southern kingdom. Judah’s king, Jehoshaphat, fasts and prays, and he receives prophecy that Judah will win without a fight. On the day of battle, Jehoshaphat still prepares and sends out his best singers who lead the way, praising God. With Judah’s secret weapon—songs of praise—the attacking nations become confused, attack each other, and end their own lives.

Can you imagine?

Soldier: “What’s the plan, General?”

General: “We are going to send out the singers.”

To our thinking, this is probably the most illogical plan of attack. When faced with a challenge, singing songs of praise—worshiping God—is often the last thing we want to do. Instead, we focus on the problem. We try to overcome the obstacle in our own strength and understanding, which only saps our energy. But when we turn our focus to God and worship him, our battle is assuredly won. The act of worshiping releases the power of God as we proclaim his strength.

When we worship, God works. We become refreshed; we find peace and a sense of joy. We can dare to look our enemy in the eye and shout as David did against Goliath, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel” (1 Samuel 17:45).

In worship, we discover the breathtaking strength of God as we witness him fight for us.

If you don’t worship … you’ll never experience God.

David Jeremiah

The heart of God loves a persevering worshipper who, though overwhelmed by many troubles, is overwhelmed even more by the beauty of God.

Matt Redman

Without worship, we go about miserable.

A. W. Tozer

For Further Reflection

2 Chronicles 20:20–22; Hebrews 13:15; Psalm 150:2

Today’s Prayer

Lord, I chose to praise and worship you in the middle of my circumstances. I chose to bless you when my spirit is weak. You alone will have the glory and the victory. Amen.