2 Chronicles 32:7

"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged before the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater One with us than with him.

Study Bible

Be strong and courageous
This phrase is a recurring exhortation in the Old Testament, often used to encourage leaders and the people of Israel in times of trial or battle. The Hebrew words "chazaq" (be strong) and "amats" (be courageous) are commands that imply not just physical strength, but also mental and spiritual fortitude. Historically, this call to strength and courage is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises His presence and support. This phrase is reminiscent of God's charge to Joshua (Joshua 1:6-9), emphasizing reliance on God's power rather than human might.

Do not be afraid or discouraged
The Hebrew words "yare" (afraid) and "chathath" (discouraged) address the natural human response to overwhelming circumstances. In the context of 2 Chronicles 32, King Hezekiah is facing the formidable Assyrian army. The command not to fear is a call to trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness. This assurance is a common theme throughout Scripture, where God repeatedly tells His people not to fear because He is with them (Isaiah 41:10). It is a reminder that fear and discouragement are countered by faith and trust in God's promises.

because of the king of Assyria
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant military power during the time of Hezekiah, known for its brutal conquests and advanced warfare tactics. The mention of the "king of Assyria" specifically refers to Sennacherib, who invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem. Historically, the Assyrian threat was a real and terrifying presence, making Hezekiah's call to faith even more significant. This context highlights the contrast between the earthly power of Assyria and the divine power of God, encouraging believers to focus on God's might rather than the apparent strength of their adversaries.

or of the vast army with him
The "vast army" underscores the overwhelming odds faced by Hezekiah and the people of Judah. The Assyrian military was not only large in number but also well-equipped and experienced in warfare. This phrase serves to magnify the miracle of God's deliverance, as recorded later in the chapter, where God intervenes and saves Jerusalem from destruction. It is a testament to the fact that no matter how insurmountable the opposition may seem, God's power is greater.

for there is a greater One with us than with him
This statement is a profound declaration of faith in God's supremacy. The "greater One" refers to Yahweh, the God of Israel, who is omnipotent and sovereign over all nations. This echoes the sentiment found in 1 John 4:4, "greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world." It reassures believers that God's presence and power surpass any earthly threat. Historically, this confidence in God's superiority was validated when God miraculously delivered Jerusalem from the Assyrians, reinforcing the truth that God is always greater than any challenge we face.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah who reigned during the time of the Assyrian threat. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. King of Assyria
Refers to Sennacherib, the Assyrian king who invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem. He is a representation of a formidable earthly power.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under threat from the Assyrian army. It is a central place of worship and the location of the Temple.

4. The Assyrian Army
A vast and powerful military force that posed a significant threat to Judah. Their presence was intimidating and caused fear among the people.

5. The Greater One
Refers to God, who is with Judah and is greater than any earthly power, including the Assyrian army.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Hezekiah's confidence was rooted in his trust in God's sovereignty. In times of overwhelming challenges, believers are encouraged to rely on God's supreme power and presence.

Courage in the Face of Adversity
The call to be strong and courageous is a timeless exhortation for believers to face their fears with faith, knowing that God is greater than any opposition.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Just as Judah faced a physical army, Christians today face spiritual battles. Recognizing that God is with us provides strength and courage to stand firm.

The Importance of Leadership
Hezekiah's leadership in encouraging his people highlights the role of godly leaders in guiding others to trust in God during crises.

God's Presence as Our Assurance
The assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme in Scripture, providing comfort and strength to believers in every circumstance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing challenges?

2. In what ways does the assurance of God's presence in 2 Chronicles 32:7 compare to the promises found in Joshua 1:9 and Romans 8:31?

3. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate courage and strength in our daily walk with God?

4. How can we, like Hezekiah, encourage others to trust in God's greater power during times of fear and uncertainty?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "vast army" in your life. How did the knowledge of God's presence impact your response, and what can you learn from that experience for future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:9
This verse echoes the command to be strong and courageous, as God is with His people wherever they go. It reinforces the theme of divine presence and support.

Romans 8:31
This New Testament verse reflects the assurance that if God is for us, no one can be against us, paralleling the confidence Hezekiah had in God's greater power.

Psalm 46:1-3
These verses speak of God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, aligning with the assurance given to Hezekiah and the people of Judah.