The incredible power of praise

The incredible power of praise cannot be overstated. 

We will face many challenges, many battles in life. Nothing we can do or say will keep them from coming up, it’s a part of life. It’s a promise in our walk with God that we will in fact face many trials (John 16:33), but what we can control is the way that we face them.

 As so many others, there have certainly been times where I have walked into battle unprepared, already in a mindset of defeat, and sure enough the battle raged on. But if we look at how the Israelites went into battle, repeatedly Judah (the house of praise) was sent first. In the story of Joshua, it was the musicians and psalmists that marched first, upon the final lap around the city on the final day, it was not a shout of war, but a cry of praise that caused the walls to collapse … why?

Praise comes from a heart of victory, praise comes from the place of knowing that our Father in heaven is a good, righteous, victorious God. Simply put, I cannot express the difference it makes when we position our hearts in such a way.

Yes, we shall face trials, it is part of the cycle, but these trials reach victory through the recognition and expression of who God is. For He is worthy during our victories, and He is worthy during our failures. He remains the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, as so many songs state, He is the God on the mountain top and the God in the valley.

When we praise, when we worship, when we acknowledge our victory in Christ, we no longer are in a position looking up against our opposition but rather standing above looking down at that which is assured to be defeated. I encourage you brothers and sisters today, if you are facing anything good or bad, reposition your life into a place of praise in which you can see the walls of Jericho crumbling because of His great worthiness.

He will never leave you, nor forsake you, He will always walk with you, guide you, and instruct you. Our only decision is if will we see it or not, and if will we respond to His presence or not. 

Go forth in joy, and watch the transformation when we praise in the midst.

Justin Gardner pastors at River of Life Fellowship, 702 Church St., Sandpoint. The church can be reached at 208-255-7111.