Rejoice Again and Again!

1 Kings 22:10–40, 51–53; 2 Chronicles 18:9–20:30

(An excerpt from Karen’s daily devotional, “Connections.”)

Jehoshaphat is another good king of Judah. I thank God for 2 Chronicles 20, for it is rich in truth for us today. When a vast enemy army approaches, Jehoshaphat seeks the Lord and proclaims a fast for all Judah. The people follow their leader and seek help from God. He reminds God of His promises to the children of Israel. “Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (v. 12). Have you ever felt like that or said that to God? I know I have.

God responds to Jehoshaphat’s prayer. “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s” (v. 15). God then gives Jehoshaphat specific instructions. His response is to bow before God and worship Him.

“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” (vs. 21–22).

Praise moves the hands of God. “Then, led by Jehoshaphat, all the men of Judah and Jerusalem returned joyfully to Jerusalem, for the Lord had given them cause to rejoice over their enemies” (v. 27).

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Phil. 4:4). When you’re under attack, rejoice! When you’re outnumbered, rejoice!  When you don’t know what to do, rejoice! When it makes no sense to the human mind, rejoice! When it looks like certain defeat without God’s intervention, rejoice! Send praise ahead in faith for what God will do! Praise before there’s cause to rejoice, and God will give you cause to rejoice! God expects praise before, during, and after the battle no matter how long it takes! Rejoice again and again!