Weapon of Praise
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: January 17, 2025
Scripture: “After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: ‘Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.’ As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.” — 2 Chronicles 20:21-22 (NIV)
Devotional Thoughts
Life often feels like a battlefield. We face overwhelming challenges—financial struggles, sickness, broken relationships, or uncertainty about the future. Our natural instinct is to fight back with human strategies: worry, fear, and self-reliance. But God’s way is different. He calls us to use a powerful, unconventional weapon: praise.
King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah faced an impossible situation. Three mighty armies were marching against them. Outnumbered and unprepared for war, Jehoshaphat turned to the Lord in prayer, confessing, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12). In response, God gave an astonishing battle plan: send the worshippers ahead of the warriors.
Imagine going into battle with no swords, shields, or bows—just songs of thanksgiving! Yet, as they lifted their voices in praise, God Himself fought for them. The enemy armies turned against each other and were completely destroyed. Judah didn’t even have to lift a finger!
This story teaches us a profound truth: praise is a spiritual weapon that invites God’s power into our battles. When we praise God, we shift our focus from the size of our problem to the greatness of our God. Praise acknowledges that He is in control, no matter how dire the situation seems.
Practical Reflection
Are you facing a battle today? Instead of letting fear take over, start praising God for who He is and what He has done in your life.
Praise is an act of faith. It declares victory before we see it. Begin your day with worship, thanking God in advance for the breakthrough.
When worry creeps in, replace it with praise. Sing a song of gratitude or speak aloud God’s promises over your life.
Closing Thoughts
Just as God fought for Judah, He fights for you. Your battles are not yours but the Lord’s. When you use the weapon of praise, you invite His power to work on your behalf. Even when things seem bleak, praise brings light, hope, and divine intervention. Let praise be your strategy, and watch God move in ways beyond your imagination.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You that You are the God who fights my battles. Teach me to trust You more and to use the weapon of praise, even when things seem uncertain. Help me to lift my voice in worship instead of worry, knowing that You are working behind the scenes for my good. May my praise rise as a testimony of faith, and may I see Your victory in every area of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.