2 Chronicles 20:14-30
Believers often think of praise as a byproduct of good fortune, but praise is always appropriate. When messengers came with warnings of an advancing army, King Jehoshaphat became fearful. But as he recalled the Lord’s sovereignty and past faithfulness, he remembered that God provides solutions to seemingly hopeless situations.
The divine solution seemed strange and rather unnerving: “You need not fight in this battle; station yourselves, stand and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf” (2 Chron. 20:17). But in the next instant, the king and his people were on their faces worshipping the Lord. Praise magnifies God’s presence, making His followers more aware of Him standing with them.
The Israelites knew their Protector was in their midst; they trusted He had a plan because praise had reminded them that this was always true of God. Jehoshaphat’s heart traveled a spectrum from fearful to helpless to courageous (2 Chron. 20:3; 2 Chron. 20:12; 2 Chron. 20:20).
The Lord intervened personally and miraculously for the Israelites. He will do the same for you. The next time you face a troubling situation, choose praise. God will release His power in your life, giving you courage and filling your heart with joy.
Bible in One Year: 1 Corinthians 7-10
