1. Dedication of Solomon's Temple:
"It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD;
So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God" (II Chronicles 5:13-14).
The glory of God did not fill the temple until the musicians and singers began to praise God in one mind and one accord--even though the temple was already finished, and all of the pieces of furniture were in their proper place. This teaches us that we can have everything in proper place in our lives, but we must worship God if we want to experience His glorious presence.
2. Judah's Victory Over Their Enemies:
"And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten" (II Chronicles 20:22).
Several nations of Israel's enemies joined together to fight against Judah. Judah was greatly outnumbered. Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, proclaiming a fast throughout all Judah. The spirit of the LORD came upon one of the Levites, who prophesied that the Lord would give them the victory. They would not even have to fight for it!
Singers were appointed to worship and praise the LORD, and as they did so, God fought for Judah and defeated their enemies. This teaches us that in the time of temptations, trials, etc., we can have the victory by praising and worshipping the Lord Jesus Christ.
3. Paul and Silas Experiences Victory in Prison:
"And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bands were loosed" (Acts 16:25-26).
Paul and Silas had been cast into prison for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Instead of moaning and groaning, they got their minds off themselves, and begin to sing praises unto their God. God sent a spiritual (and physical) earthquake. Because of this move of the Holy Spirit, Paul baptized the jailor and his household. (Acts 16:27-33)
