2 Chronicles 20:12

Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this vast army that comes against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You."

Study Bible

O our God
This phrase is a direct address to the God of Israel, emphasizing a personal and covenantal relationship. The Hebrew word for God here is "Elohim," which denotes majesty and power. The use of "our" signifies a collective identity and reliance on God, reflecting the communal faith of the Israelites. Historically, this invocation is a reminder of the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it underscores the Israelites' dependence on God as their ultimate protector and judge.

will You not judge them?
The plea for judgment is rooted in the Hebrew word "shaphat," which means to govern or to vindicate. This reflects a deep trust in God's justice and righteousness. In the historical context, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, is appealing to God to act as the divine judge against the invading armies. This request is not just for deliverance but for God to uphold His moral order and covenantal promises.

For we are powerless
The acknowledgment of powerlessness is a profound expression of humility and recognition of human limitations. The Hebrew root "ayin" conveys a sense of lacking or being without. This admission is crucial in the biblical narrative, as it sets the stage for divine intervention. It reflects a theological truth that human strength is insufficient without God's aid, a recurring theme throughout Scripture.

before this vast army
The term "vast army" highlights the overwhelming odds faced by Judah. The Hebrew word "hamon" can mean a multitude or a great number, emphasizing the sheer size and threat of the enemy forces. Historically, this situation is dire, as Judah is surrounded by a coalition of enemies. This phrase serves to magnify the impending danger and the need for divine intervention.

that comes against us
This phrase indicates an imminent threat and a direct confrontation. The Hebrew verb "bo" means to come or to approach, suggesting an advancing force. The historical context here is critical, as it reflects the real and present danger faced by the people of Judah. This confrontation is not just physical but also spiritual, as it challenges the faith and trust of God's people.

We do not know what to do
This confession of uncertainty is a candid admission of human limitation and the need for divine guidance. The Hebrew phrase "lo yada" means not knowing or lacking understanding. This moment of vulnerability is pivotal, as it opens the way for God to demonstrate His wisdom and power. It is a call to faith, trusting in God's omniscience and providence.

but our eyes are upon You
The phrase "our eyes are upon You" is a powerful declaration of faith and dependence. The Hebrew word "ayin" for eyes symbolizes focus, attention, and expectation. This is a turning point in the narrative, where the people of Judah choose to look to God rather than their circumstances. It is an act of worship and trust, acknowledging that their deliverance and hope rest in God's hands. This posture of looking to God is a timeless principle for believers, encouraging a steadfast gaze upon the Lord amidst life's challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The King of Judah who is leading his people in prayer during a time of crisis. He is known for his reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It is under threat from a coalition of enemy forces in this passage.

3. The Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites
These are the enemy nations forming a coalition against Judah, posing a significant military threat.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Jehoshaphat and the people gather to seek the Lord's guidance and deliverance.

5. The Temple
The place where Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah gather to pray and seek God's intervention, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Jehoshaphat's prayer highlights the importance of recognizing our own limitations and relying on God's strength and wisdom.

Prayer in Crisis
In times of overwhelming challenges, turning to God in prayer should be our first response, as demonstrated by Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah.

Eyes on God
Keeping our focus on God, even when circumstances seem dire, is crucial for maintaining faith and receiving His guidance.

Community in Prayer
The gathering of Judah to seek God together underscores the power and importance of communal prayer and support.

God's Sovereignty
Trusting in God's ability to judge and intervene in our situations reminds us of His ultimate control over all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to the threat against Judah challenge or encourage you in your current life situation?

2. In what ways can you apply the principle of "our eyes are upon You" in your daily walk with God?

3. How does the communal aspect of prayer in this passage inspire you to engage with your church or community in times of need?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt powerless. How did you respond, and what can you learn from Jehoshaphat's example?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to this passage deepen your understanding of relying on God in times of uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 121
This Psalm emphasizes looking to God for help, similar to how Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah look to God in their time of need.

Exodus 14:13-14
Moses tells the Israelites to stand firm and see the deliverance of the Lord, paralleling Jehoshaphat's reliance on God for deliverance.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace, which aligns with Jehoshaphat's prayerful approach.

James 1:5
Advises believers to ask God for wisdom when they lack it, reflecting Jehoshaphat's admission of not knowing what to do.