Day 24. The Means of Grace
Question 1
Music moves us. A captivating song stirs our hearts like nothing else. God wired us for singing; it's a universal act of worship across cultures. The Bible overflows with musical praise and even commands God's people to rejoice in song. We need to learn to “sing our way to victory.” Praising God is a means of grace for those of us who believe in Jesus.
Second Chronicles 20 gives us a powerful picture of praise unlocking victory and deliverance. King Jehoshaphat faced an imposing enemy army advancing against Judah. In response, he called on the nation to pray and fast for God's help. As the people sought the Lord wholeheartedly, His Spirit spoke through Jahaziel to say, “Do not be afraid! The battle is not yours, but God’s” (verse 15).
What happened next is astonishing. They marched into battle singing praises to God with joyful hearts, led by the choir and musicians (verse 21). Yes, the praise team led the way into battle! And as they praised, the Lord ambushed the enemy so that Judah didn't even need to fight!
This story shows the immense power unlocked when God's people lift their voices in faith-filled praise, especially amidst trials. As 2 Chronicles 20:22 declares, “As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against their enemies.” Something supernatural happens when we fix our eyes on God's supremacy and sing out His praises rather than fixate on our struggle.
Of course, the victory was not won by the music itself but by God's intervention in response to their obedient praise and cries for help. Our music moves the Father's heart because He delights in the sincere praises of His children (Psalm 147:1). The Bible says He lives in the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3), so if you want to experience God’s presence, then learn to praise Him.
Even more, praise reorients our focus from hardship to the unstoppable greatness of our Savior. As we sing truths about God, our faith soars. We gain strength to withstand adversity and walk in the victory Christ purchased through the cross.
This is a key purpose of music in spiritual life: it reminds us who God is and what He's done, anchoring our minds in heavenly hope. As Colossians 3:16 says, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude teaches and admonishes us. Ephesians 5:19–20 also exhorts us to sing and make music in our hearts to the Lord.
Question 1. Why do you think singing and praising God brings victory in our battle with sin and self?
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