2 Chronicles 20:10

And now, here are the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, whom You did not let Israel invade when they came out of the land of Egypt; but Israel turned away from them and did not destroy them.

Study Bible

And now
This phrase marks a transition, indicating a shift from past events to the present situation. It serves as a call to attention, emphasizing the urgency and immediacy of the circumstances faced by Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. In the Hebrew text, the word "now" (וְעַתָּה, ve'atah) often signifies a pivotal moment, urging the audience to focus on the unfolding narrative and its implications.

here are the Ammonites, Moabites, and the people of Mount Seir
These groups represent historical enemies of Israel, each with a distinct lineage and history. The Ammonites and Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, while the people of Mount Seir were Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. Their mention here underscores the recurring theme of familial conflict and the enduring enmity between these nations and Israel. Historically, these groups occupied territories east and southeast of the Dead Sea, often engaging in hostilities with Israel.

whom You did not let Israel invade
This phrase highlights God's sovereign decision during Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 2, God explicitly instructed the Israelites not to harass or provoke the Ammonites, Moabites, and Edomites, as their lands were not part of the inheritance promised to Israel. This divine directive underscores God's control over historical events and His plans for each nation.

when they came from the land of Egypt
This reference to the Exodus serves as a reminder of God's past deliverance and faithfulness to Israel. The journey from Egypt was a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing liberation and the establishment of a covenant relationship with God. It evokes memories of God's mighty acts and His guidance through the wilderness.

but they turned away from them and did not destroy them
This phrase reflects Israel's obedience to God's command not to engage in conflict with these nations during their initial journey. It highlights a moment of restraint and adherence to divine instruction, contrasting with other instances where Israel was commanded to conquer and destroy. This obedience is significant, as it demonstrates Israel's reliance on God's guidance and their trust in His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah who is leading the nation in prayer and seeking God's guidance in the face of a vast enemy coalition.

2. Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir
These are the nations that have come against Judah. Historically, they were spared by the Israelites during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

3. The Land of Egypt
The place from which the Israelites were delivered by God, marking the beginning of their journey to the Promised Land.

4. The Israelites' Journey
Refers to the historical journey of the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan, during which they were instructed by God not to engage certain nations in battle.

5. The Prayer of Jehoshaphat
A significant event where Jehoshaphat seeks divine intervention, acknowledging God's past instructions and current sovereignty.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
Recognize that God has a plan and purpose in historical events, even when they seem perplexing or challenging.

Obedience to God's Commands
Reflect on the importance of obeying God's instructions, even when they do not align with our immediate understanding or desires.

Trust in Divine Justice
Trust that God will address wrongs and injustices in His timing and way, as seen in the restraint shown by Israel and the subsequent threat from these nations.

Prayer as a Response to Crisis
Emphasize the importance of turning to God in prayer during times of crisis, seeking His guidance and intervention.

Remembering God's Past Faithfulness
Encourage believers to recall and rely on God's past faithfulness as a source of strength and confidence in present challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to the threat from Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir demonstrate his faith in God?

2. What can we learn from the Israelites' initial restraint towards these nations, and how does it apply to our interactions with others today?

3. In what ways does the historical context of Israel's journey from Egypt enhance our understanding of 2 Chronicles 20:10?

4. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our personal lives, as seen in Romans 12:19?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a crisis. How did prayer and recalling God's past faithfulness help you navigate that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 2:4-9
This passage provides the background for why Israel was instructed not to engage with the nations of Ammon, Moab, and Edom (Mount Seir) during their journey from Egypt.

Psalm 83:4-8
This psalm lists the same nations conspiring against Israel, showing a recurring theme of opposition from these groups.

Romans 12:19
This New Testament verse echoes the principle of leaving vengeance to God, which is relevant to the restraint shown by Israel in not attacking these nations initially.