Praise and honor given to our Lord and King is the most powerful instrument that brings down His glory that encompasses the full force of His power and authority. It is when God is lifted higher in praises that comes forth from sincere and dedicated hearts, that His glory and power are displayed. The Scripture records such instances that give us more insight on this— the walls of Jericho came down when God’s people shouted praise (Joshua 6:20); Paul and Silas were released from their chains when they sang and praised God in the middle of the night in the prison (Acts 16:25-26).

​

In our reading today, the threat against Jehoshaphat and his people coupled with his response and reactions, gives us a clear picture of the importance of prayer and praise warfare. Even though Jehoshaphat was frightened by the news, yet he resolved to pray to the Lord and ask for guidance. He further moved to give orders for a fast to be observed throughout the country, during which time he drew the attention of the Lord “…and prayed aloud, "O LORD God of our ancestors, you rule in heaven over all the nations of the world. You are powerful and mighty, and no one can oppose you.”(2Chron.20:6 GNT)

​

Even though Jehoshaphat ruled as leader of the people, he did not consider the expertise of his military generals to be more important than the Creator, in this matter. He truly and sincerely gave God the honor and respect he deserved as he considered the situation in front of him.  Though frightened and terrified at the face of mighty armies, his trust and confidence were totally placed in the Lord. Reading through Verses 7-12 explains this. When God saw the way in which His name was praised, honored and recognized by Jehoshaphat in the midst of the people of Judah, He immediately responded to Jehoshaphat and his people through Jahaziel son of Zechariah. Jahaziel said, "Your Majesty and all you people of Judah and Jerusalem, the LORD say that you must not be discouraged or be afraid to face this large army. The battle depends on God, not on you." (2Chron.20:15 GNT)

​

This few words of encouragement from the Lord through Jahaziel, fired more confidence in Jehoshaphat and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem. Knowing full well what it means to have a word from the Lord, Jehoshaphat bowed his face and all the people with him worshipped the Lord.  With the words of the Lord in mind (The battle depends on God, not on you.) Jehoshaphat as the commander in Chief decided to fix his battle and matching plans according to divine inspirational orders with “Battle operations code” namely Prayer and Praise Warfare. Even though he commanded a standing army, yet he thought it fit to order the musicians to put on the robes they wore on sacred occasions and to march ahead of the army, singing: "Praise the LORD! His love is eternal!" After all the prayers and fasting, it was now time to praise the Lord and to give Him the free hand and authority to show His might in the difficult situation they faced. 

​

Whenever we choose to let God have his way in our prayers and life’s challenging situation, by giving Him the praises and honor he deserves and the free hand to act on our behalf, all we need to do is to relax and see the mighty strength of his power without fretting. He will act on behalf of His children who earnestly look to Him!

​

​

Meditate on what GOD says:

“I am God and always will be. No one is able to take anything out of My hand. I do something, and who can change it?” – Isaiah 43:13 [NLV]