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“They assembled in the Valley of Beracah on the fourth day, for there they praised the Lord.”  2 Chronicles 20:26 (ESV)

How would you define 2020 or better yet how is 2020 defining us?  Have to admit this year will be one we will not easily forget.  Many challenges and uncertainties have characterized our days.  And the anticipation of a New Year within weeks is getting us through until we flip our calendar on December 31.

Isolation, solitude and stillness aren’t necessarily welcomed friends but they can usher in a deepening of what is truly important. Remove the perceived presence of what we consider to be essential and necessary for joy to reign in our lives, and we find ourselves where we need to be  – desperately dependent on our God.

Exactly where Jehoshaphat and the inhabitants of Judah found themselves. No virus was raging through their land, but a vast army was coming up against them.  When they didn’t know what to do, they kept their eyes focused on God.  Before the battle even began, they were praising the Lord God (2 Chronicles 20:19).  When they went out in front of the armed forces, they were led out with praise “Give thanks to the Lord, for His faithful love endures forever.”

God divinely orchestrated an ambush against their enemies who ultimately destroyed each other.  Celebrating their victory, the people of Judah gathered abundant goods from their enemies for three days.  And on the fourth day, they praised the Lord (verse 26).

A people who were clueless on what to do in the face of their enemy surrounded themselves with praises to their God. When we encompass ourselves with praise before, during and after our battles then our focus is truly on the Lord and not what is staring us in the face.

None of us knows what a year will yield – what challenges or uncertainties we may face.  However, we do we have an abundance of reasons to praise and give thanks to our God regardless of the journey.  Our God is the faithful giver of blessings to those who place their trust and faith in Him.  He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek His face.  He is our constant Comforter in moments when life gets hard.  He is our Peace and Calm in the midst of the storm.  God is ever present when everyone else walks out.  God generously supplies everything we need.  He graciously paints the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets.  He restores and redeems our lives and the lives of those we love.  God orchestrates divine plans to ensure we receive His very best.

While we may not have enjoyed the 2020 journey, we can raise our voices and lift up praises to our God who has walked through each day with us.

“Father, You have been our constant companion, our source of strength and encouragement.  We praise You for being more than enough for all we need.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life