How do you react to good news?

My friend Lisa claps and even shakes her hands.

My daughter Victoria lifts her hand and even jumps around a little.

Then there’s my Aunt Judy, who quietly smiles as happy tears flow freely.

I’ve been in worship services where people have exhibited those same expressions of joy as they sang the good news of the power of our God.

While none of these responses surprise me, I was surprised to find a passage in the Bible where songs of praise were used as a response to bad news.

When Jehoshaphat, King of Judah (which means praise) found out that an enemy army was going to attack, he praised God and asked Him for help.

Part of Heaven’s response is recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:15, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

The next day, Jehoshaphat put men to sing and praise God ahead of the army.

As they praised, God set ambushes against the enemy, and the enemy destroyed each other.

Judah’s identity, praise, also proved to be their greatest weapon, and they used it when under attack.

I know it’s a challenge, but whether I hear good news or bad, I want praise and prayer to always be my first response, not my last resort.

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.