20 After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, came against Jehoshaphat for battle.
20 Then some came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi).
3 Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.
4 And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.
5 And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord, before the new court,
6 and said, “O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you.
7 Did you not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel, and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend?
8 and they have lived in it and have built for you in it a sanctuary for your name, saying,
9 ‘If disaster comes upon us, the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we will stand before this house and before you—for your name is in this house—and cry out to you in our affliction, and you will hear and save.’
10 And now behold, the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir, whom you would not let Israel invade when they came from the land of Egypt, and whom they avoided and did not destroy—
11 behold, they reward us by coming to drive us out of your possession, which you have given us to inherit.
12 O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.
13 Meanwhile all Judah stood before the Lord, with their little ones, their wives, and their children.
14 And the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly.
15 Thus says the Lord to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s.
16 Tomorrow go down against them. Behold, they will come up by the ascent of Ziz. You will find them at the end of the valley, east of the wilderness of Jeruel.
17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you.”
18 Then Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the Lord, worshiping the Lord.
19 And the Levites, of the Kohathites and the Korahites, stood up to praise the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.
20 And they rose early in the morning and went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. And when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be established; believe his prophets, and you will succeed.”
21 And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the Lord and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, “Give thanks to the Lord, for his steadfast love endures forever.”
22 And when they began to sing and praise, the Lord set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed.
23 For the men of Ammon and Moab rose against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction, and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they all helped to destroy one another.
24 When Judah came to the watchtower of the wilderness, they looked toward the horde, and behold, there were dead bodies lying on the ground; none had escaped.
25 When Jehoshaphat and his people came to take their spoil, they found among them, in great numbers, goods, clothing, and precious things, which they took for themselves until they could carry no more. They were three days in taking the spoil, it was so much.
26 On the fourth day they assembled in the Valley of Beracah, for there they blessed the Lord. Therefore the name of that place has been called the Valley of Beracah to this day.
27 Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat at their head, returning to Jerusalem with joy, for the Lord had made them rejoice over their enemies.
28 Thus the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around.
29 And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel.
30 So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around.
31 Thus Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi.
32 He walked in the way of his father Asa and did not turn aside from it, doing what was right in the sight of the Lord.
33 Now the high places were not removed from Israel. The heart of Asa was wholly true all his days.
34 Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, from first to last, are written in the chronicles of Jehu the son of Hanani, which are recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel.
35 After this Jehoshaphat king of Judah joined with Ahaziah king of Israel, who acted wickedly.
36 They sailed with Tarshish, and they went to Ezion-geber, but when Jehoshaphat began to build ships of the line, they were wrecked at Ezion-geber.
37 Then Eliezer the son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, “Because you have joined with Ahaziah, the Lord will destroy what you have made.” And the ships were wrecked and were not able to go to Tarshish.
The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 20
The Book of 2 Chronicles was written by an unknown author, likely a Levite priest or scribe, who compiled the historical accounts of the kingdom of Judah after the reign of King David. This chapter recounts a pivotal moment in the life of King Jehoshaphat, a righteous ruler who faced a daunting military threat from a coalition of neighboring kingdoms. Jehoshaphat’s response to this crisis echoes the faith and reliance on God demonstrated by earlier leaders such as King Asa and King Hezekiah. The events that unfold will remind us of the importance of seeking divine guidance and trusting in the Lord’s deliverance, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
The chapter opens with the news of a vast army marching against Judah, prompting Jehoshaphat to call the people to a time of fasting and prayer. His words, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you” (2 Chronicles 20:12), reflect a humble and dependent spirit that stands in stark contrast to the arrogance and self-reliance that often characterize human leaders. God will deliver Judah and bring about the downfall of their enemies, just as He had promised in Deuteronomy 20:1-4, as we follow the narrative and witness His miraculous intervention.
2 Chronicles 20:1-4
A significant event unfolds in the life of King Jehoshaphat of Judah in 2 Chronicles 20:1-4. This section sets the stage for one of the most memorable stories of faith and God’s deliverance in the Old Testament. The verse starts by introducing a coalition of nations that come against Jehoshaphat for battle. The Ammonites, Moabites, and Meunites, representing a formidable threat, join forces to attack Judah. Jehoshaphat is faced with a serious and overwhelming situation as these enemies gather together to wage war against his kingdom.
Upon learning of this impending attack, King Jehoshaphat’s immediate response is to seek the Lord. He proclaims a fast among all the people of Judah and gathers them in Jerusalem to seek help from the Lord. This act of turning to God in times of trouble reveals Jehoshaphat’s deep faith and dependence on God for deliverance. The king’s actions demonstrate the importance of seeking God first in times of crisis, rather than relying on his own strength or seeking help from allies.
The response of the people of Judah to Jehoshaphat’s call for fasting and seeking the Lord is noteworthy. They gather in unity at the temple to seek the Lord’s help, showing a collective commitment to seeking God’s intervention in their desperate situation. Unity among the people of Judah during this time of crisis highlights the power of coming together in prayer and seeking God’s guidance as a community. This unity reflects the significance of standing together in faith during difficult times, rather than facing trials alone.
This passage in 2 Chronicles 20:1-4 reminds us of the biblical principle of seeking God earnestly in times of trouble. It teaches us the importance of turning to God first when faced with challenges, just as King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah did. Their example encourages believers to approach God with humility, fasting, and prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance and deliverance. This story sets the stage for the miraculous intervention and victory that God will bring for Judah in the face of overwhelming odds, which will be unfolded in the following verses. The account of Jehoshaphat’s faith and God’s response serves as a timeless reminder of the power of prayer, unity, and trust in God’s faithfulness in the midst of trials, echoing principles found throughout the Bible, such as in Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
2 Chronicles 20:5-9
King Jehoshaphat cries out to the Lord in prayer as Judah faces a formidable alliance of enemies coming against them in 2 Chronicles 20:5-9. The breakdown of this section is crucial for understanding the depth of Jehoshaphat’s faith and the powerful lessons we can draw from his actions.
Firstly, King Jehoshaphat’s prayer begins with him acknowledging the supremacy of God over all the kingdoms of the earth. This declaration sets the foundation for his plea for help, highlighting his belief in God’s sovereignty and power. It is a powerful reminder for us today that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, God is ultimately in control of all things. This act of turning to God first in times of trouble is a lesson we can all embody.
Secondly, Jehoshaphat reminisces on God’s faithfulness to his ancestors, particularly to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. By recounting God’s past deeds, he strengthens his own faith and that of the people around him. This act of remembrance serves as a testament to God’s consistent faithfulness throughout the generations. It underscores the importance of reflecting on our own lives and recognizing the faithfulness of God in our personal journeys.
Thirdly, the king humbly admits their powerlessness before the huge army that stands before them but firmly asserts his trust in God’s ability to deliver them. This blend of humility and unwavering faith is something we can all learn from. We must acknowledge our limitations in our own trials while simultaneously placing our trust completely in God’s strength and provision.
Furthermore, Jehoshaphat appeals to God for help, emphasizing that the situation they face is beyond their own capabilities to handle. He affirms his dependence on God’s wisdom and guidance in navigating the impending battle. This act of surrendering control to God is a poignant reminder for us that our battles are not ours alone to fight, but God fights on our behalf if we only trust and rely on Him. A faithful leader in the face of overwhelming odds chooses to seek God’s help and guidance, as captured in these verses in 2 Chronicles 20. Jehoshaphat’s prayer serves as a blueprint for us on how to approach challenges in our own lives – with humility, faith, remembrance of God’s past faithfulness, and complete reliance on Him. The story of Jehoshaphat in this chapter not only reveals the power of prayer but also demonstrates the transformative impact of genuine faith in God’s ability to intervene on behalf of His people.
2 Chronicles 20:10-13
King Jehoshaphat’s prayer in 2 Chronicles 20:10-13 underscores his humility, faith, and dependence on God in a poignant moment. Let’s identify key sections in this verse to delve into its profound meaning. Jehoshaphat acknowledges God’s sovereignty and power in verse 10, stating, “But now here are men from Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir, whose territory you would not allow Israel to invade when they came from Egypt; so they turned away from them and did not destroy them.”” Here, the king recognizes God’s past faithfulness to Israel by forbidding their destruction of these nations. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of God’s providence and protection over His people, even in times of conflict and opposition.
Moving on to verse 11, Jehoshaphat continues his prayer by affirming his trust in God’s ability to handle the current threat facing Judah. He proclaims, “See how they are repaying us by coming to drive us out of the possession you gave us as an inheritance. Jehoshaphat appeals to God’s justice in this statement, highlighting the injustice of the situation and seeking divine intervention in the face of overwhelming odds. His plea reflects a deep sense of reliance on God’s righteousness and deliverance.
Verse 12 showcases Jehoshaphat’s vulnerability and honesty before the Lord as he admits, “Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” Here, the king humbly acknowledges Judah’s powerlessness and uncertainty in the face of the impending conflict. His admission of inadequacy underscores the importance of relying on God’s strength and wisdom in times of crisis. Jehoshaphat demonstrates a posture of faith and surrender by fixing his gaze on the Lord, recognizing that true victory comes from God alone.
Lastly, in verse 13, Jehoshaphat’s vulnerable prayer culminates with the gathering of Judah before the Lord. He declares, “All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the Lord.” This act of unity and collective prayer signifies the importance of communal worship and seeking God’s guidance as a community. Judah exemplifies the power of unified faith in overcoming challenges and seeking divine intervention by standing together in humble submission and dependence on God. The prayer of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20:10-13 serves as a timeless reminder of the significance of humility, faith, trust, and unity in seeking God’s help in times of trouble. Jehoshaphat’s example illuminates the unwavering faithfulness of God to His people and the transformative power of prayer in times of need. This passage not only emphasizes the importance of seeking God first in all circumstances but also highlights the strength found in communal worship and reliance on the Lord’s guidance. Believers today can draw inspiration from Jehoshaphat’s prayer to turn to God in absolute dependence, knowing that He is our refuge and strength in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).
2 Chronicles 20:14-17
The story of King Jehoshaphat presents a pivotal moment in 2 Chronicles 20:14-17. Let’s break down this passage:
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“Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite…”
Here we see the Spirit of the Lord coming upon Jahaziel, a Levite. This sets the stage for divine intervention in the upcoming events. The fact that Jahaziel is specifically identified with his lineage as a Levite underscores the significance of God’s chosen people and highlights the role of the Levites in worship and service to God. The presence of the Levite in this moment emphasizes the importance of seeking God in times of trouble. -
“…as he stood in the assembly. He said: ‘Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.’”
Jahaziel’s message from the Lord is one of reassurance and comfort. The people of Judah are facing a formidable enemy, and in the face of such overwhelming odds, fear and discouragement would be natural emotional reactions. However, Jahaziel’s proclamation that the battle belongs to the Lord serves as a reminder that ultimate victory lies in God’s hands. This message of divine intervention and the call to trust in God’s power over human strength is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. -
“Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’”
Jahaziel continues to relay God’s instructions to King Jehoshaphat, providing specific details on how they are to approach the impending conflict. The detailed guidance given here underscores God’s sovereignty and His intimate involvement in the affairs of His people. The instruction to “stand firm” and “see the deliverance the Lord will give you” emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. This directive speaks to the broader biblical theme of trusting in God’s plans and promises, even when circumstances appear dire. These verses highlight the power of seeking God’s guidance and trusting in His provision, even when faced with overwhelming obstacles. The narrative of King Jehoshaphat’s reliance on God’s word through Jahaziel and the subsequent victory serves as a timeless reminder of the faithfulness of God towards those who put their trust in Him. This story echoes the biblical principle found in Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages believers to trust in the Lord with all their hearts and lean not on their own understanding, acknowledging Him in all their ways so that He will direct their paths.
2 Chronicles 20:18-21
Several key sections in 2 Chronicles 20:18-21 provide deep insight and valuable lessons. Let’s break it down into parts:
“But Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the Lord, worshiping the Lord.” – This verse illustrates the humility and reverence displayed by Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, in the face of a daunting situation. Despite being faced with a formidable enemy army, Jehoshaphat’s immediate reaction was to bow down before the Lord in worship. This act of humility and turning to God in prayer sets a powerful example for believers today. We should seek God in worship and prayer in times of trouble or uncertainty, recognizing His sovereignty and power over all situations. This verse conveys the timeless message of the importance of seeking God’s guidance and strength through prayer, acknowledging Him as the ultimate source of help and protection.
“Then some Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up and praised the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.” – The mention of the Levites in this verse is significant as they were a tribe designated for worship and service in the temple. The fact that they stood up and praised the Lord with a very loud voice highlights their faith and trust in God’s deliverance. This demonstrates the power of worship and praise in the face of adversity. When we praise God in the midst of our challenges, it not only strengthens our own faith but also glorifies God and invites His presence into our circumstances. The Levites’ bold and loud praise serves as a reminder for us to worship God wholeheartedly, regardless of our circumstances, and to trust in His faithfulness to see us through every trial.
“Early in the morning they left for the Desert of Tekoa. Jehoshaphat stood and said, ‘Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem!’ Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful.’” – Jehoshaphat’s exhortation to the people of Judah demonstrates his unwavering faith in God’s promises and his trust in the guidance of the prophets. Jehoshaphat emphasizes the importance of believing in God’s word and acting on it by urging the people to have faith in the Lord and His prophets. This verse underscores the timeless truth that faith and obedience are key ingredients for success in the Christian walk. When we trust in God’s promises and follow His guidance through His word and His appointed servants, we position ourselves for victory and blessings. Jehoshaphat’s words echo the sentiment expressed in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. The Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated as they began to sing and praise.” – This final verse encapsulates the miraculous deliverance that God brought about in response to the faith and worship of Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. Instead of engaging in conventional warfare, Jehoshaphat led his army in an unconventional act of worship and praise. The moment they began to sing and praise, the Lord intervened on their behalf and caused confusion among their enemies, leading to their defeat. This powerful demonstration of God’s faithfulness and deliverance underscores the principle that victory often comes through faith and obedience rather than relying solely on human strategies or strength. The story of Jehoshaphat’s victory through worship and praise serves as a timeless reminder that God is our ultimate deliverer and that when we turn to Him in faith and worship, He will fight our battles and bring us triumphantly through every trial. 2 Chronicles 20:18-21 offers profound insights into the themes of worship, faith, obedience, and divine deliverance. Through the actions of Jehoshaphat, the Levites, and the people of Judah, we see the power of humility, praise, and trust in God’s word. This passage serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness to His people when they turn to Him in genuine worship and unwavering faith. It encourages believers to seek God first in times of trouble, to worship Him boldly, to trust in His promises, and to obey His word, knowing that He is a mighty warrior who fights on behalf of those who put their faith in Him.
2 Chronicles 20:22-24
King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah display a powerful act of faith and worship in 2 Chronicles 20:22-24. Let’s break down the verse into important sections to understand its significance in the context of 2 Chronicles 20.
Firstly, in verse 22, we witness how the people of Judah, led by King Jehoshaphat, began to praise and worship the Lord even before the battle had been won. Despite the imminent threat of their enemies, instead of turning to fear or despair, they turned to God in worship and adoration. This act of faith is a powerful example of trusting in God’s promise of deliverance even in the face of overwhelming odds. It teaches us a valuable lesson in times of trouble – to turn to God in worship and praise, acknowledging His sovereignty and power over all circumstances. God intervenes miraculously in response to the faith and worship of His people in the next verse, 23. The Bible tells us that as the people sang and praised, the Lord set an ambush against their enemies, causing confusion and turning them against each other. This outcome demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His people when they trust in Him wholeheartedly. It shows us that when we surrender our battles to God and worship Him in the midst of our trials, He is able to fight on our behalf and bring about victories that surpass human understanding.
The final verse, 24, reveals the aftermath of the battle for Judah. When they came to the watchtower in the wilderness, they looked toward the multitude of their enemies, only to find them defeated and lying dead on the ground. The victory that God had granted them was not through their own strength or strategies but through His divine intervention in response to their faith-filled worship. This moment serves as a reminder that when we involve God in our battles and give Him the glory through our worship and praise, He is faithful to fight for us and grant us victory. This passage is a pivotal moment in the reign of King Jehoshaphat in the broader context of 2 Chronicles 20. Earlier in the chapter, we see that Judah faced a formidable coalition of enemy armies that threatened their destruction. King Jehoshaphat’s initial response was to seek the Lord through prayer and fasting, acknowledging their powerlessness and dependence on God. The Lord responded through a prophet, assuring them of victory and instructing them to go out to face their enemies without fear.
This event highlights the importance of seeking God in times of trouble and the power of unity in worship and praise. It also echoes the timeless message found in other parts of the Bible, such as in Psalm 20:7, which says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” This passage in 2 Chronicles 20 serves as a powerful testimony to the faithfulness of God when His people turn to Him wholeheartedly, reminding us that victory comes not through our own strength, but through the power of God working on our behalf.
2 Chronicles 20:25-28
A crucial turning point in the story of King Jehoshaphat of Judah is seen in 2 Chronicles 20:25-28. Let’s break down this verse into sections.
Verse 25 starts by describing the aftermath of the battle. It states that when Jehoshaphat and his men came to take the plunder, they found an abundance of goods, clothing, and precious items, more than they could carry away. This emphasizes the abundant blessings that God provided to Jehoshaphat and his people after they had shown their faith and dependence on Him. It also serves as a practical lesson that when we put our trust in God and seek His guidance, He rewards us beyond our expectations (Ephesians 3:20).
Moving on to verse 26, we see that Jehoshaphat named the place where the victory occurred as the Valley of Beracah, which means the Valley of Blessing. Jehoshaphat acknowledged that it was God’s intervention and faithfulness that brought them victory by giving this place such a meaningful name. This act of naming the place is a tangible expression of gratitude and recognition of God’s sovereignty in their lives. It serves as a reminder to us that we should always acknowledge and praise God for His blessings and victories in our lives (Psalm 103:2).
Verse 27 highlights the unity and joy among the people of Judah and Jerusalem after the victory. They returned to Jerusalem with Jehoshaphat leading them, rejoicing in the Lord for the victory He had given them over their enemies. This scene portrays a beautiful picture of a community coming together in gratitude and worship after experiencing God’s deliverance. It demonstrates the power of unity and worship in celebrating God’s faithfulness and victories in our lives (Psalm 133:1).
Finally, in verse 28, we read that they went to the temple of the Lord with harps, lyres, and trumpets. This was a celebratory procession to offer praise and thanksgiving to God for His faithfulness and deliverance. The victory was not only a military triumph but also a spiritual one, reminding the people of Judah of the importance of worship and gratitude in honoring God for His mighty deeds. This act of worship reminds us that we should always approach God with thanksgiving and praise, acknowledging His power and faithfulness in all circumstances (Psalm 95:1-2). This passage from 2 Chronicles 20:25-28 teaches us about the importance of faith, gratitude, unity, and worship in our relationship with God. It shows us that when we trust in God, He blesses us abundantly; when we acknowledge His sovereignty, He leads us to places of blessing; when we celebrate together in unity, He fills our hearts with joy; and when we worship Him in thanksgiving, He is glorified in our lives. These timeless messages continue to inspire and guide believers today as we navigate our own battles and victories with God by our side.
2 Chronicles 20:29-30
The particular verses in 2 Chronicles 20:29-30 highlight the victorious episode of King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah over their enemies led by the Moabites and Ammonites. The key sections of this verse are:
“And the fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around.”
This verse points out the immense impact of the victory that God gave to King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. The fear of God spread throughout the surrounding nations as news of the miraculous deliverance of Judah reached them. This event displayed the power and faithfulness of God to protect and defend His people against overwhelming odds.
One central theme emphasized here is the importance of trusting in God during challenging times. King Jehoshaphat’s response to the threat of invasion was to seek God through prayer and fasting (2 Chronicles 20:3-13). His reliance on God’s promises and faithfulness not only led to victory in battle but also resulted in a period of peace and rest for the kingdom.
This story in 2 Chronicles 20 serves as a powerful reminder that when we face trials or enemies beyond our control, turning to God in faith and seeking His guidance leads to triumph. It teaches us that God is not only capable of fighting our battles but also desires to give us rest and peace in the midst of turmoil. Jehoshaphat’s experience echoes the biblical principle found in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Furthermore, the victory in this passage also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance brought by Jesus Christ for all who believe in Him. Just as King Jehoshaphat and Judah were victorious through God’s intervention, believers can find comfort in knowing that God fights on their behalf and secures a final victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57).
2 Chronicles 20:31-34
The verses in 2 Chronicles 20:31-34 focus on the reign of Jehoshaphat, King of Judah.
First, let’s look at King Jehoshaphat himself. He was a king who generally sought to follow God’s ways and was known for his religious reforms and efforts to lead the people of Judah back to God. Despite his good intentions, Jehoshaphat often faced challenges, especially from neighboring enemies like the Moabites and Ammonites. Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah at the age of thirty-five and ruled for twenty-five years in Jerusalem in this particular passage.
These verses highlight that Jehoshaphat walked in the ways of his father, Asa, who was also commended for his faithfulness to the Lord. It’s crucial to note the emphasis on following the ways of the Lord. Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent message about the importance of obeying God’s commands and trusting in Him. Both Jehoshaphat and Asa were praised for their commitment to the Lord, showing that their faithfulness had a positive impact on their reigns.
The mention of Jehoshaphat’s actions such as removing the high places and Asherah poles from Judah demonstrates his commitment to purify the land from idolatry and lead the people towards worshipping the one true God. This act of religious reform and his efforts to turn the people back to God is a common theme in the Old Testament. The removal of idols and the promotion of pure worship were necessary steps for the people to stay faithful to God’s covenant. The verse moreover talks about Jehoshaphat’s military ventures. He engaged in conflicts and fortifying cities in Judah. These actions were not solely reliant on the army’s strength but on seeking God’s guidance and trusting in Him for victory. This shows Jehoshaphat’s dependence on God in both times of peace and war. An essential lesson we can draw from this is the significance of seeking God’s guidance in all aspects of our lives, not just in times of trouble but also in times of relative calm and prosperity. These verses in 2 Chronicles 20:31-34 underscore the importance of faithfulness, worship, and seeking God’s guidance in the life and reign of Jehoshaphat. The narrative of Jehoshaphat serves as a reminder for believers to stay faithful to God, engage in worship that honors Him alone, and rely on His strength and wisdom in all circumstances. This encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider if we are walking in the ways of the Lord like Jehoshaphat did, seeking to honor God in all that we do.
2 Chronicles 20:35-37
Jehoshaphat king of Judah later made an alliance with Ahaziah king of Israel, whose ways were wicked, as we read in 2 Chronicles 20:35-37. He agreed with him to construct a fleet of trading ships. After these were built at Ezion Geber, Eliezer son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, ‘Because you have made an alliance with Ahaziah, the LORD will destroy what you have made.’ The ships were wrecked and were not able to set sail to trade.”
This passage teaches an essential lesson about the danger of forming partnerships with those who do not share our beliefs and values. Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, made the mistake of allying himself with Ahaziah, the wicked king of Israel, in a business venture to build trading ships. The Bible frequently warns against such alliances, as they often lead to compromise and disobedience to God’s commands. The prophet Eliezer delivered a message from the Lord in this case, revealing that the alliance Jehoshaphat had entered into would result in the destruction of what he had worked to build.
The story of Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahaziah serves as a cautionary tale for believers to be discerning in their relationships and partnerships. Scripture repeatedly emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with godly influences and avoiding entanglements with those who may lead us astray. Proverbs 13:20 echoes this sentiment, stating, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
Jehoshaphat’s error in forming an alliance with Ahaziah highlights the consequences of compromising one’s faith and values for the sake of temporal gain. We, as Christians, are called to stand firm in our convictions and seek alliances that are centered on God’s principles. This passage underscores the need for believers to be vigilant in their associations and to prioritize faithfulness to God above worldly opportunities. God’s faithfulness in upholding His word is demonstrated by the outcome of the ill-fated partnership between Jehoshaphat and Ahaziah. Despite the king’s error, God’s judgment was carried out as prophesied through Eliezer, underscoring the importance of heeding divine warnings and obeying God’s commands without compromise. This narrative reinforces the overarching biblical theme that obedience to God leads to blessings, while disobedience results in negative consequences. Believers should prioritize spiritual discernment in their relationships and remain steadfast in their commitment to God’s truth, as seen in the account of Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahaziah in 2 Chronicles 20. It underscores the timeless principle that our choices in whom we align ourselves with have far-reaching implications and that faithfulness to God should always take precedence over worldly pursuits.
After 2 Chronicles 20
King Jehoshaphat faced a great army that threatened to overpower the people of Judah in 2 Chronicles 20. Instead of relying on his own strength, he turned to God in prayer, acknowledging His power and seeking His guidance. The Lord responded by assuring them of victory and instructing them to march out to face their enemies without fear. God had already set ambushes against their enemies as the people of Judah obeyed His command and went out to the battlefield. The enemy forces turned on each other, resulting in a great victory for Judah without them having to lift a sword. This miraculous deliverance served as a powerful reminder of the faithfulness of God to His people when they trust in Him wholeheartedly. We can learn from King Jehoshaphat’s example and remember that when we face overwhelming challenges, we can turn to God in prayer and trust in His power to deliver us. We should hold fast to our faith and rely on the Lord’s strength to guide us through whatever trials may come our way as we continue into the next chapter.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.