While millions watched on television, Nik Wallenda walked across Niagara Falls on a 1,800 foot long wire. He took all the precautions he could. But adding to the drama and danger of both the height and the rushing water below, a thick mist obscured Nik’s sight, wind threatened his balance and spray from the falls challenged his footing. Because of these dangers, he said that he “prayed a lot” and praised God.

The Israelites also praised God in the middle of a dangerous challenge. Theirs involved a large group of warriors who had gathered to fight them (2 Chron. 20:2). After humbly asking God for help, King Jehoshaphat appointed a choir to march out into battle in front of the Israelite army. The choir sang: “Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever” (v.21). When they began to sing, the Lord caused the enemy forces to attack and destroy each other.

Praising God in the midst of a challenge may mean ignoring our natural instincts. We tend towards self-protection, strategising and worry. However, worshipping God can guard us against troubling thoughts and self-reliance. It reminds us of the lesson the Israelites learnt: “The battle is not [ours], but God’s” (v.15).

We can come to Him in our trials.

Author

Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Topics

Our Daily Bread