2 Chronicles 20:21
And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Chronicles 20:21 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we see King Jehoshaphat consulting with the people before appointing singers to praise the Lord as they went out before the army. This act of appointing singers to praise the beauty of holiness was a strategic move, as it served to acknowledge the greatness of God before going into battle. By praising the Lord and declaring his mercy endures forever, the army was putting their trust in God's protection and guidance. This verse reminds us of the importance of acknowledging God's goodness and faithfulness in all circumstances, even in times of war or conflict. It also highlights the power of worship and praise in spiritual warfare, as it can shift our focus from our circumstances to the greatness of God. As we face our battles, let us remember to praise the Lord and trust in his enduring mercy.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse reveals the importance of worship and praise in times of battle or difficulty. By appointing singers to go before the army, King Jehoshaphat was demonstrating his faith in the power of God to deliver them. The act of praising the beauty of holiness acknowledges God's sovereign rule over all things, including the upcoming battle. The repetition of "Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth for ever" emphasizes the everlasting nature of God's mercy and serves as a declaration of trust in His unfailing love and faithfulness. This verse teaches us that even in the face of adversity, turning to God in worship and praise can bring about victory and remind us of His enduring mercy.
2 Chronicles 20:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed them that should sing unto Jehovah, and give praise in holy array, as they went out before the army, and say, Give thanks unto Jehovah; for his lovingkindness [endureth] for ever.
World English Bible
When he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who should sing to Yahweh, and give praise in holy array, as they went out before the army, and say, Give thanks to Yahweh; for his loving kindness endures forever.
Douay-Rheims
And he gave counsel to the people, and appointed the singing men of the Lord, to praise him by their companies, and to go before the army, and with one voice to say: Give glory to the Lord, for his mercy endureth for ever.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when he had consulted with the people, and appoynted singers vnto the Lord, and them that should prayse him that is in the beautifull Sanctuarie, in going forth before the men of armes, and saying, Prayse ye the Lord, for his mercy lasteth for euer,