SubscribeI’ve been doing a little blog-hopping, skimming through what others are sharing. Someone caught my eye with her post about being “ugly,” instead of being thankful. She wrote about choosing to minimize the frustrations and maximize the praise.
This is not the first time the LORD has brought this idea to my attention. Recently, I jotted down 2 Chronicles 20:22 on a notecard, so I would return to it and consider it beyond the first read. It says: When they began singing and praising, the LORD set ambushes against the sons of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah; so they were routed.
Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, was informed that a huge army was coming against him. Though alarmed, he did the right thing – he sought the LORD. The Spirit of the LORD spoke through the Levite, Jahaziel. He told Jehoshaphat not to fear; the battle belonged to the LORD. The king shared this insight with his people, and he sent men ahead of his army to “sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness” (vs21).
Did you catch that? The worshippers were sent AHEAD of the army. God’s help came in response to the people’s praise!
Reflecting on this story, I’ve been challenged to maximize the praise in my life. I’ve pulled the almost-forgotten hymnal out of the piano bench and given it a place with my Bible, my journal, and pen.
Some mornings, I prime this time sitting with Jesus by offering up a hymn before ever opening my Bible. Other days, the Spirit speaks a few words from a well-known song in response to my prayers or thoughts as I read the Word. Every day, I’m finding this new practice empowering. It sets the tone for my attitude.
Then, going about my day, I actively look for opportunities to be thankful. It’s really not so difficult to see God’s blessing all around! How about you, friend? What are you thankful for today?
