Joshua, Praise & CBT

One of the things Joshua addressed was how the Israelites never reached the Promised Land due to their negativity, grumbling, and lack of faith. Fortunately, God gave their children an opportunity to experience the Promise.

They had a hard time believing Joshua when he told them to shout praises as they marched around the huge walls of protection surrounding Jericho. How could this help them gain victory? Joshua knew the importance of obeying God when He told him to praise before and during the battle, not just when victory was achieved.

As a young Christian, I believed the lie you had to be a super Christian to raise your hands and praise God in public. The lie was” only super perfect-looking Christians could do that”. It was hypocritical to “look so Christian” when I knew I how frequently I fall short. Finally, I saw truth through what the Word says. It isn’t about me – it is about Him, and showing Him prior to the victory and after the victory that He is worthy of my praise in all situations and circumstances. As I reach my hands towards Him in praise, I am affirming His faithfulness and goodness.

Neuroscientists today are acknowledging how thankfulness rewires the brain. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard as a tool for changing your brain so your life will change. But it is tedious and takes a long time. Even though it is important to continue to work on our thoughts, it is so much easier if we engage in praise and worship before, during and after our trials.

Joshua had no clue that shouting praises to God would be the forerunner of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy many centuries later. But God knew, and wants us to know also!

Blessings,

Lynn Langston