(The Power of Praise and Worship)

Text:             2 Chronicles 20:1-29

By:               MARVIS KAINE

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Introduction

Dearly beloved in Christ, today we gather to explore a remarkable event recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:1-29. It is a story that reminds us of the supernatural power unleashed when song became greater than weapons. As we delve into this passage, we will also examine the benefits of singing praise and psalms to God as Christians. Let us embark on this journey together and discover the transformative power of worshipping God with song.

The Story of Jehoshaphat and the Battle

Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, faced a formidable enemy alliance that threatened to overpower his kingdom. Overwhelmed and desperate, Jehoshaphat turned to God, seeking His guidance and intervention. God’s response came through the prophet Jahaziel, who declared that the battle belonged to God, not to Jehoshaphat and his army.

Instead of sending forth an army, Jehoshaphat appointed singers to lead the people in worship.

The Power of Praise and Worship

Praise and worship have a transformative effect on our spirits, our circumstances, and our relationship with God. Singing praise and psalms to God brings several benefits to Christians:

Expressing Gratitude and Humility:

Praise reminds us of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and provision in our lives.

It humbles our hearts and acknowledges God’s sovereignty and our dependence on Him.

Inviting the Presence of God:

Worship creates an atmosphere conducive to encountering the presence of God.

God dwells among the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3),

But You are holy,

Enthroned in the praises of Israel.

and He manifests His presence when we worship Him with sincerity.

Spiritual Warfare and Victory:

 Worship is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare.

Just as the singers led by Jehoshaphat experienced victory without raising a sword, our worship can overcome spiritual strongholds and bring down the walls of opposition.

God’s help is always there (Psalm 46:1-3),

God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah

and He is an immovable foundation.

Strengthening Faith and Encouragement:

1. Singing praises stirs our faith and reminds us of God’s past faithfulness.
2. It encourages and uplifts our spirits, reminding us that God is in control, and He fights on our behalf.

Unity and Fellowship:

Congregational worship unites believers, fostering a sense of community and oneness.

It strengthens the bonds of fellowship and encourages believers to support and uplift one another.

It doesn’t matter what others do, there is peace with God (Psalm 46:4-7).

There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn. The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted. The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

The Call to Trust and Be Still

Amid chaos and uncertainty, God calls us to trust in Him and be still (Psalm 46:10).

Be still and know that I am God.

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!

God controls all things and brings about peace (Psalm 46:8-9).

Come, behold the works of the Lord, Who has made desolations in the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.

For all our technology, we cannot make peace; we only come up with greater ways to destroy each other.

Wars stem from the nature of humans, but God can change hearts and bring about lasting peace.

Application in Our Lives

1. Let us cultivate a lifestyle of worship, praising God in all circumstances.
2. Choose to worship even amid challenges, knowing that God is with us, and His power is unleashed through our praise.
3. Recognize that worship is not dependent on our circumstances but on the greatness of our God.
4. Engage in congregational worship, joining with other believers to magnify the name of the Lord.

Conclusion

Beloved the account of Jehoshaphat and the power of praise and worship reminds us of the extraordinary strength that resides in the songs of our hearts. As Christians, let us tap into this supernatural power, expressing our gratitude, inviting God’s presence, engaging in spiritual warfare, and fostering unity among believers.

May we be a people who understand the significance of singing praise and psalms to God, experiencing His victory and transformation in our lives. Let us go forth, lifting our voices and hearts in worship, for when song is greater than weapons, we witness the miraculous work of God in and through us. And in the midst of it all, let us trust in Him, be still, and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10).

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