Whenever an accident, illness or unforeseen trial strikes, trying to focus on your normal routine is difficult. Despite the prayers that you have lifted up to God for help, human minds are drawn to worry. Instead of letting go of all of your burdens, some may feel like they have to fight this battle alone. This is where the urge to worry needs to be replaced by a spirit of worship.
Tomorrow go down to them. Behold, they will come up by the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the ravine before the Wilderness of Jeruel. 17 You shall not need to fight in this battle; take your positions, stand still, and see the deliverance of the Lord [Who is] with you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Fear not nor be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you, 2 Chronicles 20:16-17.
When King Jehoshaphat saw a vast army approaching, he immediately sought the Lord for discernment. During this time of inquiring, Jehoshaphat felt led to declare a fast for all of Judah. During this fast, the Spirit of the Lord came on Jahaziel bringing a word of encouragement. “Don’t fear this vast army as this battle is the Lord’s, not yours!”
And they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God and you shall be established; believe and remain steadfast to His prophets and you shall prosper. 21 When he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to sing to the Lord and praise Him in their holy [priestly] garments as they went out before the army, saying, Give thanks to the Lord, for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever! – 2 Chronicles 20:20-21
This message inspired King Jehoshaphat to develop an unique form of combat. Instead of placing a squadron of soldiers into position, the king appointed a choir to sing to the Lord. These singers went out before the army, praising and worshiping the Lord. Like any spirit filled time of worship, any lingering thoughts of worry were replaced with praise. If this technique worked for the Israeli army, why not focus on worship daily.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 