“Where do we begin? What should we do first?” asked the children of Israel concerning the mop-up operation before them.

“Start with Judah,” the Lord said.

Judah means “praise.” Praise always has priority in warfare. On the Day of Pentecost, before Peter stood up to deliver the message in which three thousand would be saved, we first see the Holy Spirit inspiring the people of God to worship Him, magnify Him, and glorify Him as they spoke praise in other tongues (Acts 2:11). Something unique happens when we praise the Lord. Praise prepares the way, clears the air, sets the stage. Praise is powerful.

I need to be reminded of this a lot. Praise paves the way to victory. When you’re discouraged and don’t know what to do, call for Judah. Lift up your hands, bow your knees, express your heart energetically, and watch and see how the enemy is beaten back.