1 Chronicles 19:13
Be strong and let us fight bravely for our people and for the cities of our God. May the LORD do what is good in His sight."
Be strong
This phrase is a call to courage and resilience. In the biblical context, strength is often associated with reliance on God rather than mere physical might. Joshua 1:9 echoes this sentiment, where God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous. The strength here is not just physical but also moral and spiritual, rooted in faith and trust in God's promises.

and let us fight bravely
The call to fight bravely reflects the necessity of courage in the face of adversity. In ancient Israel, warfare was a common reality, and bravery was a valued trait. This phrase emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the face of opposition, much like David's confrontation with Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. The bravery called for is not reckless but is grounded in the assurance of God's presence and support.

for our people
This highlights the communal aspect of the battle. The fight is not just for personal glory but for the protection and welfare of the community. In the historical context, the Israelites were a covenant people, and their identity was deeply tied to their collective relationship with God. This communal focus is seen throughout the Old Testament, where the actions of individuals often have implications for the entire nation.

and for the cities of our God
The cities mentioned are not just physical locations but represent the dwelling places of God's people and, by extension, God's presence among them. Jerusalem, as the city of God, holds particular significance as the center of worship and the location of the Temple. The defense of these cities is seen as a defense of God's honor and His covenant promises. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God dwelling among His people, as seen in Revelation 21:3.

May the LORD do what is good in His sight.
This phrase acknowledges God's sovereignty and ultimate control over the outcome of events. It reflects a deep trust in God's wisdom and goodness, reminiscent of Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39), where He submits to the Father's will. The phrase underscores the belief that God's plans are ultimately for the good of His people, as affirmed in Romans 8:28. It is a statement of faith that, regardless of the immediate outcome, God's purposes will prevail.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Joab
The commander of David's army, who is speaking in this verse. He is a key military leader and strategist in the service of King David.

2. The Ammonites
A neighboring nation of Israel, often in conflict with them. In this chapter, they have hired Aramean mercenaries to fight against Israel.

3. The Arameans
Mercenaries hired by the Ammonites to bolster their forces against Israel. They are from the region of Aram, north of Israel.

4. David
The King of Israel at the time, under whose reign this military campaign is taking place.

5. The Cities of Our God
Refers to the cities of Israel, which are considered under the protection and ownership of God.
Teaching Points
Courage in Leadership
Joab's call to be strong and fight bravely is a timeless principle for leaders. It emphasizes the need for courage and determination in the face of adversity.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
The statement "May the LORD do what is good in His sight" reflects a deep trust in God's sovereign will. Believers are encouraged to act faithfully and leave the results to God.

Community and Responsibility
Joab's motivation is not just personal victory but the protection of "our people and the cities of our God." This highlights the importance of community and collective responsibility in our actions.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battle can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual warfare, where believers are called to be strong and courageous, relying on God's strength and guidance.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Joab's leadership style in this verse inspire you in your own leadership roles, whether in your family, workplace, or community?

2. In what ways can you apply the principle of trusting in God's sovereignty in your current life circumstances?

3. How does the concept of fighting for "our people and the cities of our God" translate into modern-day responsibilities for Christians?

4. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate courage and strength in your spiritual life, especially when facing challenges?

5. How does the assurance that "the LORD will do what is good in His sight" provide comfort and guidance in decision-making processes? Consider how this connects with Romans 8:28.
Connections to Other Scriptures
Joshua 1:9
This verse echoes the call to be strong and courageous, a theme that is consistent throughout the Old Testament, especially in the context of battles and leadership.

2 Samuel 10
This chapter provides a parallel account of the same events, offering additional details and context to the battle strategy and outcomes.

Romans 8:28
The idea that God will do what is good in His sight connects to the New Testament assurance that God works all things for the good of those who love Him.
Skill and Trust Ensuring VictoryR. Tuck 1 Chronicles 19:13
True ValourJ.R. Thomson 1 Chronicles 19:13
A Bundle of MistakesW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 19:1-19
Joab and AbishaiF. Whitfield 1 Chronicles 19:6-19
The Conditions of Success in the Battle of LifeW. Clarkson 1 Chronicles 19:10-14
People
Abishai, Ammonites, Aram, David, Hadadezer, Hadarezer, Hanun, Joab, Maacah, Maachah, Nahash, Shophach, Syrians
Places
Aram-maacah, Edom, Euphrates River, Jericho, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Maacah, Medeba, Mesopotamia, Zobah
Topics
Behave, Bravely, Cities, Courage, Courageous, Fight, Heart, Ourselves, Play, Prove, Sake, Seemeth, Seems, Shew, Sight, Strengthen, Strong, Towns, Valiant, Valiantly
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Chronicles 19:9

     5214   attack

Library
Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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