********************************************************
********************************************************
Feb 22, 2006
Strength to Silence Foes
By Karen Holland

Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength, because of Your enemies, that You may silence the enemy and the avenger.

The psalmist David knew a key spiritual concept that helped him receive strength from God and silence His enemies.

Jesus referred to this same principle during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. As He came into the city and the people began to realize who Jesus was, they began to enthusiastically praise Him � much to the dismay of the religious onlookers!

and said to Him, "Do You hear what these are saying?" And Jesus said to them, "Yes. Have you never read, � Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise�?"

At first glance it looks like Jesus misquotes Psalm 8:2. Jesus did not misquote David; rather, He interpreted the Scripture and explained the truth David had discovered. There is supernatural strength loosed on our behalf when we praise God! This is the triumph of praise.

Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and (glory) triumph in your praise.

Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph! For the LORD Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth.

The hebrew word for triumph in Psalm 106 is shabach - to address in a loud tone, i.e. (specifically) loud; figuratively, to pacify (as if by words).

In Psalm 47: rinnah - a creaking or shrill sound, shout of joy, gladness, rejoicing, proclamation.

The voice of triumph is LOUD!!

Loud, boastful praise builds confidence and allows God to grow large in one's heart. It shifts one's focus from the battle to the Lord, reminding us that He is bigger than any battle, problem or circumstance. In the process foes are silenced.

___________

Lord, help each of us praise You with the voice of triumph. Let each heart give thanks to Your holy name and triumph in Your praise.

******************************************************** ********************************************************