2 Chronicles 21:16

Then the LORD stirred against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines and Arabs who lived near the Cushites.

Study Bible

Then the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and active involvement of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, highlighting His faithfulness and authority. In the context of 2 Chronicles, it underscores that God is not a distant deity but one who directly influences history according to His divine purposes.

stirred
The Hebrew root for "stirred" is "עור" (ur), which means to awaken or incite. This action by God indicates a deliberate and purposeful intervention. It suggests that God can move the hearts and minds of people, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to fulfill His will. This stirring is a response to Jehoram's unfaithfulness, showing that God uses even adversaries to bring about His judgment and correction.

against Jehoram
Jehoram, the king of Judah, had turned away from the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat, and led the nation into idolatry and sin. The phrase "against Jehoram" indicates that the consequences of his actions were now manifesting. It serves as a reminder that leadership carries responsibility and that deviation from God's commandments can lead to divine discipline.

the spirit of the Philistines
The Philistines were long-standing enemies of Israel, often representing opposition to God's people. The "spirit" here refers to their attitude or disposition, which God influenced to rise against Jehoram. Historically, the Philistines were a powerful seafaring people, and their involvement signifies a serious threat. This highlights the reality that God can use even traditional enemies to accomplish His purposes.

and the Arabs
The Arabs mentioned here were likely nomadic tribes living in the region. Their inclusion in this divine stirring shows the breadth of God's influence over various peoples. The Arabs, like the Philistines, were not typically aligned with Judah, indicating that God can orchestrate alliances and enmities beyond human understanding to achieve His ends.

who lived near the Cushites
The Cushites were people from the region south of Egypt, often associated with Ethiopia. The mention of their proximity to the Arabs provides geographical context, indicating the widespread nature of the threat against Jehoram. It also suggests that God's stirring was not limited to immediate neighbors but extended to more distant regions, demonstrating His omnipotence and the far-reaching impact of His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoram
The king of Judah, son of Jehoshaphat, who led the nation into idolatry and wickedness, departing from the ways of his father.

2. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who exercises judgment and discipline over His people.

3. Philistines
A neighboring people often in conflict with Israel, known for their military prowess and enmity towards God's people.

4. Arabs
Tribes living near the Cushites, involved in the conflict against Judah as instruments of God's judgment.

5. Cushites
A people group from the region of Cush, often associated with the area south of Egypt, indicating the geographical context of the Arabs.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, including judgment against His people when they stray from His commands.

Consequences of Idolatry and Disobedience
Jehoram's idolatry led to national consequences, reminding us that our personal sins can have broader impacts on our communities.

The Role of Adversity in God's Plan
Adversity can be a tool used by God to bring about repentance and return to Him. It is important to seek God's purpose in our trials.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoram's failure as a leader highlights the need for leaders to follow God's ways, as their actions can lead a nation towards or away from God.

God's Faithfulness to His Covenant
Despite Jehoram's unfaithfulness, God remained faithful to His covenant with David, showing His enduring commitment to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jehoram's reign in 2 Chronicles 21:16 illustrate the consequences of turning away from God?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the events described in this verse, and how does this apply to our understanding of current world events?

3. Reflect on a time when adversity led you to a deeper relationship with God. How can this passage encourage you to seek God's purpose in difficult times?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehoram's leadership about the impact of personal choices on those we lead or influence?

5. How does God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, despite Jehoram's failures, encourage us in our own walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 8:20-22
Provides a parallel account of Jehoram's reign and the revolt of Edom, illustrating the broader context of his troubled rule.

Leviticus 26:17
Discusses the consequences of disobedience to God, including being defeated by enemies, which is relevant to Jehoram's situation.

Proverbs 16:7
Highlights how God can influence the hearts of others, either for peace or conflict, as seen in the stirring of the Philistines and Arabs.

Isaiah 45:7
Affirms God's sovereignty over both peace and calamity, relevant to understanding His role in stirring up adversaries against Jehoram.