Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. — Joshua 6:4
INTRODUCTION
WORSHIP is a term used to refer to “the act or action associated with attributing honour, reverence, or worth to that which is considered to be divine by religious adherents.”
Christian worship is often defined as the “ascription of worth or honour to the Triune God.” Worship is more fully understood as an interrelation between divine action and human response. This includes divine initiation in which God reveals Himself, His purposes, and His will.
Sometimes we worship because we’ve had a victory. But sometimes we worship until we see one.
In the book of Joshua chapter 6, God demonstrated that there would be times in life where worship would be the way to victory. Worship will be the way we defeat our enemy. Worship will be what brings us the very freedom we so badly desire.
THE BATTLE OF JERICHO
Joshua 6 describes the conquest of the city of Jericho by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua, the new leader after Moses’ death, who received instructions from God on how to conquer the city. The events of Joshua 6 take place after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land.
God instructed the Israelites to march around the city of Jericho silently for six days, with seven priests carrying trumpets of rams’ horns leading the way.
On the seventh day, the Israelites are commanded to march around the city seven times. When the priests blow their trumpets on the seventh circuit, the people are to shout, and the walls of Jericho will miraculously collapse.The Israelites then enter the city and conquer it.
“On the seventh day, they got up at daybreak and marched around the city seven times in the same manner, except that on that day they circled the city seven times.
The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the army, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city” – Joshua 6:15-16.
The interesting thing is, the trumpets God instructed them to play were sometimes used as a battle cry before the battle but were most often used to celebrate after a victory.
The Israelites would always fire up the worship music after they won a battle. But in this case, God told them to start worshiping, singing, yelling, and playing those instruments before they saw the victory.
Worship can indeed be a powerful weapon in the spiritual realm. When we worship, we express our reverence, adoration, and submission to God. It is an act of acknowledging His greatness, faithfulness, and sovereignty over all things.
Here’s how worship can become a weapon of choice:
- Spiritual Warfare: Worship is a form of spiritual warfare. It shifts our focus from earthly circumstances to the greatness of God. It reminds us of His power and authority, which can combat the spiritual forces of darkness. In worship, we align ourselves with God’s truth, declaring His victory over every challenge we face.
- Battling Fear and Anxiety: Worship has the ability to dispel fear and anxiety. When we fix our eyes on God’s goodness and faithfulness, our worries diminish. Worship allows us to surrender our burdens to Him, trusting in His provision and guidance. It strengthens our faith and reminds us that God is in control.
- Building Intimacy with God: Worship creates a space for us to connect intimately with God. It opens our hearts to His presence, allowing us to experience His love, peace, and joy. As we draw near to Him in worship, He draws near to us, and this closeness empowers us to face any challenge that comes our way.
- Proclaiming God’s Truth: Through worship, we proclaim and declare God’s truth and promises over our lives. As we sing or speak words of praise, we are reminded of who God is and what He has done. This declaration of truth strengthens our faith and serves as a reminder that God is greater than any obstacle we may encounter.
- Shifting the Atmosphere: Worship has the power to shift the spiritual atmosphere around us. It brings God’s presence into our midst and drives away darkness. Worship invites the Holy Spirit to move in our lives, transforming hearts, minds, and circumstances. It creates an environment where God’s power and breakthrough can manifest.
Conclusion
Jericho’s walls, which were securely barred, miraculously fell, and the Israelites were able to overcome the city.
They experienced freedom and a victory they never dreamed possible. And the whole thing was put in motion with a weapon called worship.
By making worship our weapon of choice, we engage in a spiritual practice that uplifts our spirits, strengthens our faith, and aligns us with God’s purposes. It also allows us to tap into the supernatural power of God, enabling us to face challenges with courage, hope, and confidence.
Remain Blessed!
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