2 Chronicles 20:17

You need not fight this battle. Take up your positions, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out and face them tomorrow, for the LORD is with you.'"

Study Bible

You need not fight this battle
This phrase is a profound declaration of divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "fight" is "לחם" (lacham), which means to engage in battle or warfare. Historically, this reflects God's assurance to His people that their struggles are not theirs alone. In the context of ancient Israel, battles were often fought with the understanding that victory depended on divine favor. This assurance from God emphasizes His sovereignty and the idea that spiritual battles are won not by human might but by divine power.

Take your positions, stand firm
The command to "take your positions" and "stand firm" is a call to faith and obedience. The Hebrew word for "stand firm" is "יצב" (yatsab), which implies being steadfast and immovable. This reflects a spiritual posture of trust and readiness, reminiscent of Ephesians 6:13, where believers are encouraged to stand firm in the armor of God. It is a reminder that while God fights for His people, they are called to be active participants in faith, holding their ground in the face of adversity.

and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf
"Salvation" in Hebrew is "ישועה" (yeshuah), which signifies deliverance and victory. This phrase invites the people to witness God's deliverance, underscoring the theme of divine rescue that permeates the Old Testament. The historical context here is crucial; Israel's history is replete with instances where God delivered them from seemingly insurmountable odds. This assurance is not just for physical deliverance but also points to the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God's promise.

O Judah and Jerusalem
Judah and Jerusalem represent the southern kingdom and the spiritual heart of Israel, respectively. This address highlights the specific audience of God's promise, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. Historically, Jerusalem was the center of worship and the location of the Temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This phrase reassures the inhabitants of God's unwavering commitment to them despite their challenges.

Do not be afraid or discouraged
Fear and discouragement are common human responses to overwhelming situations. The Hebrew words "ירא" (yare) for "afraid" and "חתת" (chathath) for "discouraged" convey a deep emotional response to danger. God's command to reject these emotions is a call to trust in His power and faithfulness. This echoes the frequent biblical exhortation to fear not, reminding believers that God's presence dispels fear and instills courage.

Go out to face them tomorrow
This directive to "go out" signifies action and faith in God's promise. The people are called to confront their enemies, demonstrating trust in God's word. The mention of "tomorrow" indicates a specific time, underscoring the immediacy of God's intervention. It reflects the biblical principle that faith often requires stepping out in obedience, even when the outcome is unseen.

for the LORD is with you
The assurance of God's presence is the cornerstone of this promise. The Hebrew name for God here is "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This promise of divine presence is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, providing comfort and strength to God's people. It assures believers that they are never alone in their battles, for God Himself accompanies them, ensuring victory and peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The King of Judah who sought the Lord's guidance when faced with a vast enemy army.

2. Judah and Jerusalem
The southern kingdom and its capital, representing God's chosen people who were under threat.

3. The LORD
The God of Israel, who promises deliverance and commands His people to trust in Him.

4. The Enemy Armies
The Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites who came to wage war against Judah.

5. The Battle
A confrontation where God instructs His people to stand firm and witness His deliverance without fighting.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control of every situation, and His plans are for our good and His glory.

Stand Firm in Faith
In times of trial, maintain your position in faith, trusting that God will act on your behalf.

Do Not Fear
Fear and discouragement are natural, but God calls us to replace them with faith and courage.

Witness God's Salvation
Be attentive to how God works in your life and the lives of others, providing deliverance and victory.

Active Participation in God's Plan
While God fights our battles, we are called to take our positions and be ready to act in obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to the threat of invasion demonstrate his faith in God?

2. In what ways can we "take our positions" and "stand firm" in our own spiritual battles today?

3. How does the assurance of God's presence ("the LORD is with you") impact your approach to challenges?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to overcome fear and discouragement in your life?

5. How can the account of God's deliverance in 2 Chronicles 20:17 inspire you to trust Him in seemingly impossible situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:13-14
Similar to the Red Sea crossing, where Moses tells the Israelites to stand firm and see the salvation of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:13-14
Paul instructs believers to put on the full armor of God and stand firm against spiritual battles.

Psalm 46:10
Encourages believers to be still and know that God is in control, echoing the call to trust in God's deliverance.

Isaiah 41:10
God reassures His people not to fear because He is with them, providing strength and help.

Romans 8:31
Paul reminds believers that if God is for us, who can be against us, reinforcing the theme of divine support.