THE POWER OF PRAYER, PRAISE AND WORSHIP

BARBARA E. PERKINS

THE POWER OF PRAYER, PRAISE AND WORSHIP

There is a beautiful narrative in the word of God from the book of 2 Chronicle Chapter 20. This is one of my favorite passages in the Bible on the power of prayer, praise and worship, as well as leaning totally in faith upon Almighty God. This is the answer to what do you do, when you don’t know what to do? It is also the answer to how do we develop I closer relationship with the LORD? In this chapter Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, was no match for the powerful enemy army that confronted him. In the midst of tremendous fear, Jehoshaphat sought the LORD GOD (as a vital need) and declared a fast in all of Judah. He fervently prayed God’s word, reminding the LORD GOD of all of the promises He had made to the descendants of Abraham forever. Jehoshaphat prayed, O LORD, You promised that if evil would come upon us, “You will hear and save.” God’s answer to Jehoshaphat came through the prophet, Jahaziel, saying, “Don’t be afraid or dismayed for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” Even better, God said, “You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem! Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you. And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem bowed before the Lord, worshiping the Lord.” Then some of the leaders stood up to praise the LORD with a very loud voice. Hallelujah!!! God gave Jehoshaphat battle orders which included having the praise and worship leaders leading his army in their holy garments. As they praised the LORD, giving thanks, He set up ambushments against their enemies causing the enemy to slaughter each other. Jehoshaphat and his army did not have to fight, but they collected the spoils for three days. LORD, thank You for giving us this wonderful example of the power of prayer, praise, worship, and totally trusting You. Thank You for always making a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). All glory to You, Almighty God! Praise Your holy name!