Faith plays a significant role in offering praises to God. Many of the roles are enumerated below. As it is written without faith it is impossible to please God: anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he is the rewarder of those who diligently seek him. Hebrew 11:6
Faith stands as an anchor to our soul, through faith we are connect not just to God but also his blessings
In 2 Chronicles chapter 20, we witness a powerful testament to the role of faith in praising God. This chapter tells the story of King Jehoshaphat and how he faced a formidable enemy with unwavering trust in God. Through his example, we learn valuable lessons about the significance of faith in our own lives.
The Context
Before delving into the role of faith, it is essential to understand the context surrounding this remarkable account. King Jehoshaphat had received news that a vast army was advancing against him. Faced with overwhelming odds, he immediately sought the Lord’s guidance and turned to Him in prayer.
A Prayer of Faith
Jehoshaphat’s prayer in 2 Chronicles 20:6-12 reflects his deep faith in God’s power and promises. He acknowledges that God is the supreme ruler over all kingdoms and nations. With humility, he admits his own weakness and inability to face this situation alone. Instead, he trusts God completely, believing that His intervention is the only solution.
Trusting in God’s Promises
Jehoshaphat’s faith is further demonstrated when he reminds God of His promises to the Israelites. He recalls how God had delivered their ancestors from Egypt and granted them the promised land. By remembering these past acts of faithfulness, he strengthens his belief that God will again come to their aid.
Praise Before Victory
What sets this account apart is Jehoshaphat’s decision to send out singers ahead of the army, praising the Lord for His holiness and mercy (2 Chronicles 20:21). Despite being faced with imminent danger, he chooses to prioritize praise over fear. This act of faith demonstrates that true worship arises from a heart that trusts in God’s sovereignty, regardless of circumstances.
Divine Intervention
As the people of Judah began to sing and praise, God intervened miraculously. He confused the enemy camp, leading them to destroy one another. By the time Jehoshaphat and his army arrived, they found only dead bodies and abundant spoil (2 Chronicles 20:22-25).
Lessons for Today
The account of Jehoshaphat’s faith offers several valuable lessons for us today. Firstly, it teaches us that faith is not dependent on our circumstances but on our belief in God’s character and promises. Even when faced with overwhelming challenges, we can choose to trust in God’s power and faithfulness.
Secondly, Jehoshaphat’s example reminds us of the importance of praising God in all situations. True worship involves acknowledging God’s supremacy and expressing gratitude for His mercy and grace. When we prioritize praise over fear, we invite God’s presence and intervention in our lives.
Lastly, this story encourages us to remember God’s faithfulness in the past. Reflecting on how He has worked in our lives and throughout history strengthens our faith and enables us to face future challenges with confidence.
Conclusion
The role of faith in praising God is exemplified in the account of Jehoshaphat’s prayers and actions in 2 Chronicles chapter 20. His unwavering trust in God demonstrated through prayer, praise, and remembrance of God’s promises, led to divine intervention and victory.
May this powerful story inspire us to cultivate a deep faith in God, prioritize praise over fear, and remember His faithfulness as we navigate life’s challenges. Let us be encouraged to trust that our Heavenly Father is always with us, ready to guide us through every trial we may face.