2 Chronicles 20:9

If disaster comes upon us--whether sword or judgment, plague or famine--we will stand before this temple and before You, for Your Name is in this temple. We will cry out to You in our distress, and You will hear us and save us.'

Study Bible

If disaster comes upon us
This phrase sets the stage for a conditional situation, acknowledging the reality of trials and tribulations in life. The Hebrew word for "disaster" is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which can mean evil, calamity, or adversity. Historically, the Israelites faced numerous adversities, from foreign invasions to natural disasters. This acknowledgment of potential disaster reflects a deep understanding of human vulnerability and the need for divine intervention.

whether sword or judgment
The "sword" symbolizes warfare and conflict, a common threat in the ancient Near East. The Hebrew word "חֶרֶב" (chereb) is often used in the Old Testament to denote military threats. "Judgment" refers to divine retribution or justice, "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) in Hebrew, which can also mean a legal decision or ordinance. This duality of threats—human and divine—emphasizes the comprehensive nature of potential dangers.

plague or famine
"Plague" (דֶּבֶר, deber) and "famine" (רָעָב, ra'av) are natural calamities that have historically devastated populations. Plagues were often seen as divine punishment, while famine was a constant threat in agrarian societies dependent on seasonal rains. These terms highlight the Israelites' reliance on God for protection and provision in the face of uncontrollable natural events.

we will stand before this temple and before You
The act of standing "before this temple" signifies a posture of reverence and supplication. The temple in Jerusalem was the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people. "Before You" underscores the direct appeal to God, emphasizing a personal relationship with the divine. This reflects the centrality of the temple in Jewish worship and the belief in God's omnipresence.

for Your name is in this temple
The "name" of God, "שֵׁם" (shem), represents His character, authority, and presence. The temple was not just a building but a sacred space where God's name dwelled, signifying His covenantal relationship with Israel. This phrase underscores the belief that God's presence in the temple assured His people of His attention and care.

We will cry out to You in our distress
"Cry out" (זָעַק, za'aq) conveys a sense of urgency and desperation. It is a common biblical expression for seeking divine help. "Distress" (צָרָה, tsarah) refers to a state of trouble or affliction. This phrase captures the essence of prayer as a heartfelt plea for divine intervention in times of need.

and You will hear us and save us
The assurance that God will "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) and "save" (יָשַׁע, yasha) reflects a deep faith in His responsiveness and power to deliver. This confidence is rooted in the covenant promises God made to Israel. The expectation of divine salvation is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, reinforcing the belief in God's faithfulness and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah who led the nation in seeking God's help during a time of crisis.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing a coalition of enemies.

3. The Temple
The physical place in Jerusalem where God's presence dwelt, symbolizing His covenant with Israel.

4. Enemies
The Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites who threatened Judah with war.

5. God's Deliverance
The central theme of the passage, highlighting God's faithfulness to hear and save His people.

Teaching Points

God's Presence in Crisis
The temple symbolizes God's presence. In times of crisis, believers are reminded to turn to God, who is always present and attentive to our cries.

Faith in God's Deliverance
Jehoshaphat's prayer reflects a deep trust in God's ability to deliver. Believers are encouraged to have faith that God hears and acts on behalf of His people.

The Power of Corporate Prayer
The nation of Judah gathered to seek God's help. This emphasizes the importance of communal prayer and unity in seeking God's intervention.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The assurance that God will hear and deliver is rooted in His covenant promises. Believers can trust in God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His word.

Responding to Fear with Faith
When faced with overwhelming circumstances, the response should be to stand firm in faith, trusting in God's power and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's response to crisis in 2 Chronicles 20:9 inspire you to handle your own challenges?

2. In what ways can the concept of the temple as God's dwelling place be applied to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

3. How can the practice of corporate prayer strengthen a community of believers facing difficult situations?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How does this passage encourage you to trust Him in future trials?

5. How can the assurance of God's faithfulness in 2 Chronicles 20:9 be a source of comfort and strength in your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8:33-34
Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple, asking God to hear and forgive His people when they pray toward the temple.

Psalm 46:1
God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, reinforcing the theme of divine deliverance.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encouragement to present requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace that guards hearts and minds.

Hebrews 4:16
The invitation to approach God's throne of grace with confidence to receive mercy and find grace in times of need.