King Jehoshaphat was in trouble. A vast army was marching against him and his kingdom. He was terrified. He prayed, asking the Lord for guidance, and ordered the people to fast. In front of the community of Judah and Jerusalem, he prayed to God. A man in the group spoke up and encouraged the people. He told them not to be afraid and then uttered the phrase that has been repeated for generations since his time, “The battle is not yours, but God’s.”
The next morning, after talking with his people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of his army, singing and praising God. This is what they sang, “Give thanks to the Lord, his faithful love endures forever.”
And at the moment the people began to sing, an amazing thing happened. The enemy armies became confused and began fighting each other. They fought until they completely destroyed themselves. King Jehoshaphat’s army had no part in the battle. It was entirely the Lord’s. (II Chronicles 20)
Of course they won the victory because they obeyed and depended on the Lord. But then I started thinking about singing and how important music is to us today. Can it still defeat our enemies? Yesterday as we gathered in churches, we sang songs. The music ministry is part of the over-all worship of God and helps set the tone for the sermon that follows. Music has always had a big impact on my life. If I hear a song that stirs a sad memory, it affects my mood. A song with a positive, inspiring message puts a spring in my step.
I’ve found on those days when I feel as gloomy as Eeyore, if I can sing a song of praise, I feel much better. I believe the Lord Jesus loves music. It is all around us in nature and the harmony of Creation as God made it is like a beautiful piece of music.
Did a song defeat Jehoshaphat’s enemies? No, it was the Lord. Can you imagine what the invading armies thought when they heard God’s people singing? That was probably not at all what they expected. Music is powerful. Try singing when you feel like crying. You might be amazed at the results.
I love this story from the Old Testament and reminds me of a lesson in my Social Studies books that we discussed and acted out in class in the sixth grade. Unfortunately we didn’t sing a praise song to God, but we sang. Also reminds me of the song, This is the Time I must Sing, that our young choir used to sing, praising the Lord in son and giving Him the victory.
I needed this today. I lost my only son 39 years ago today – he lived 36 minutes Happy Birthday son.
I am so sorry for your loss, Mary Alice.