As we begin the New Year, I’ve been reflecting, praying, and seeking God’s direction in the New Year. I’ve also been listening to some insights from other people that I respect and I’d like to share some of these thoughts here.
This year is 2025, which aligns with the year 5785 on the Jewish calendar. The number 5 represents grace, the unmerited favor of God, and the number 25 signifies the forgiveness of sins. Together they point to God’s amazing mercy and His desire to restore and bless us.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 20:25 – A Key Verse for the Year
There are a few key passages that resonate deeply with this year, one of them being 2 Chronicles 20:25. To fully understand the blessing of this passage, it is first important to grasp the context.
King Jehoshaphat and his people found themselves facing overwhelming odds against the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites. Outnumbered and powerless, Jehosphat was fearful, so he wisely turned to God in prayer, saying, “O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” (2 Chronicles 20:12, NLT).
In response God spoke through the prophet Jahaziel, who said,
“Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!”
(2 Chronicles 20:15, 17, NLT).
Credit: Marek Studzinski
The Power of Praise and Worship in the Battle
Christmas Celebration at Hospital de Fe Church
God answered the prayers of Jehoshaphat and the people of Israel. Encouraged by this word from the prophet Jahaziel, Jehoshaphat motivated the people to believe in the Lord their God and in His prophets. He motivated them to praise the Lord, and as they worshiped, something miraculous occurred: their enemies began to fight each other. “At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves.” (2 Chronicles 20:22, NLT).
The people didn’t have to fight physically fight, but spiritually, they were engaged in warfare through their praise. Their worship became their weapon. As they sang and worshiped God, the Lord fought for them, and they obtained the victory.
Credit: Ismael Paramo
What a powerful reminder! Worship is not just an act of gratitude, it is also spiritual warfare. When we lift our voices in praise, we invited God to step into our battles. Glory to God! He is our refuge and strength. He fights our battles and defeats our enemies.
God’s Abundant Provision
The story didn’t end with victory alone. After they defeated their enemies, the people of Judah gathered the spoils of war.“King Jehoshaphat and his men went out to gather the plunder. They found vast amounts of equipment, clothing, and other valuables—more than they could carry. There was so much plunder that it took them three days just to collect it all!” (2 Chronicles 20:25, NLT).
Walking in Victory and Blessing
Worship at Verdad y Vida Church in Mexicali, Mexico
This year is a year of victory and blessing. This abundant provision reveals God’s character.We see the greatness of our God toward His people. We don’t need to be afraid when we face our enemies because our Heavenly Father is with us, fighting our battles. He doesn’t just deliver us, He blesses us beyond what we can imagine.
As we enter 2025, I believe this story holds a prophetic message for us. God is inviting us to trust Him completely, to stand in faith, and to worship Him wholeheartedly. He fights our battles, defeats our enemies, and provides abundantly for His people.
It is both good and important to praise God. I am reminded of Martin Luther’s words: “Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise.” There is power in praise, and it pleases the Lord when we lift our voices to worship Him.
I love this image of the church united in prayer and worship, while our Heavenly Father fights for us bringing victory and restoration.
Be Encouraged!
This year, 2025, is a year of victory and blessing. Whatever challenges you face, know that God is with you. He is fighting for you. Let us pray in faith for the plunder that awaits us and step into this new season with confidence in His promises.
As we begin the New Year, I’ve been reflecting, praying, and seeking God’s direction in the New Year. I’ve also been listening to some insights from other people that I respect and I’d like to share some of these thoughts here.
This year, 2025, is a year of victory and blessing. Whatever challenges you face, know that God is with you. He is fighting for you. Let us pray in faith for the plunder that awaits us and step into this new season with confidence in His promises.