How does Matthew 26:30 inspire us to prepare for trials with worship? A Hymn Before the Storm Matthew 26:30: “And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” • Just before Gethsemane, Jesus literally leads His disciples in worship. • The hymn was almost certainly part of the “Hallel” (Psalm 113–118), words praising God’s faithfulness and salvation. • Worship, therefore, is not an after-thought but the final deliberate act before entering the darkest night. Why Worship Comes First • Focuses the heart on God, not the crisis (Psalm 59:16; Psalm 46:1). • Proclaims trust in God’s sovereign plan (2 Chronicles 20:21). • Strengthens inner resolve through the Word set to song (Colossians 3:16). • Invites peace that guards mind and heart (Philippians 4:6-7). • Follows the Lord’s own pattern: praise precedes perseverance. Practical Steps to Prepare for Trials with Worship – Begin each day with a psalm or hymn exalting God’s character. – Memorize biblically rich songs; they surface when pressure silences other words. – Turn key passages into personal praise (Psalm 23; Isaiah 40; Romans 8:31-39). – Commit to corporate singing; shared voices train the heart for solitary valleys. – In anxious moments, voice a brief doxology before addressing the problem. – Like Jesus, worship first, then walk forward trusting the Father’s will. A Closing Encouragement The One who sang on the way to Calvary triumphed over sin and death. Following His example—lifting praise before the battle—we face our own trials clothed in the same victorious hope. |
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