◄ 2 Chronicles 20 ►
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War against Jehoshaphat 1After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites,a came to make war against Jehoshaphat. 2Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom,b from beyond the Sea;c they are already in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, En-gedi). 3Jehoshaphat was alarmed and set his face to seek the LORD. And he proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. 4So the people of Judah gathered to seek the LORD, and indeed, they came from all the cities of Judah to seek Him. Jehoshaphat’s Prayer 5Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem in the house of the LORD in front of the new courtyard 6and said, “O LORD, God of our fathers, are You not the God who is in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand, and no one can stand against You. 7Our God, did You not drive out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham Your friend? 8They have lived in the land and have built in it a sanctuary for Your Name, saying, 9‘If disaster comes upon us—whether sword or judgment,d 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.’ 10And now, here are the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, whom You did not let Israel invade when they came out of the land of Egypt. So Israel turned away from them and did not destroy them. 11See how they are repaying us by coming to drive us out of the possession that You gave us as an inheritance. 12Our 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.” 13Meanwhile all the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, were standing before the LORD. The Prophecy of Jahaziel 14Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite from Asaph’s descendants, as he stood in the midst of the assembly. 15And he said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle does not belong to you, but to God. 16Tomorrow you are to march down against them. You will see them coming up the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the valley facing the Wilderness of Jeruel. 17You need not fight this battle. Take up your positions, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out and face them tomorrow, for the LORD is with you.’” 18Then Jehoshaphat bowed facedown, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down before the LORD to worship Him. 19And the Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up to praise the LORD, the God of Israel, shouting in a very loud voice. The Enemies Destroy Themselves 20Early in the morning they got up and left for the Wilderness of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood up and said, “Hear me, O people of Judah and Jerusalem. Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be upheld; believe in His prophets, and you will succeed.” 21Then Jehoshaphat consulted with the people and appointed those who would sing to the LORD and praise the splendor of His holiness. As they went out before the army, they were singing: “Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever.” 22The moment they began their shouts and praises, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated. 23The Ammonites and Moabites rose up against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction.e And when they had finished off the inhabitants of Seir, they helped to destroy one another. 24When the men of Judah came to a place overlooking the wilderness, they looked for the vast army, but there were only corpses lying on the ground; no one had escaped. 25Then Jehoshaphat and his people went to carry off the plunder, and they found on the bodies an abundance of goods and valuablesf —more than they could carry away. They were gathering the plunder for three days because there was so much. The Joyful Return 26On the fourth day they assembled in the Valley of Beracah,g where they blessed the LORD. Therefore that place is called the Valley of Beracah to this day. 27Then all the men of Judah and Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat at their head, returned joyfully to Jerusalem, for the LORD had made them rejoice over their enemies. 28So they entered Jerusalem and went into the house of the LORD with harps, lyres, and trumpets. 29And the fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the lands when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel. 30Then Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side. Summary of Jehoshaphat’s Reign (1 Kings 22:41–50) 31So Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi. 32And Jehoshaphat walked in the way of his father Asa and did not turn away from it; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. 33The high places, however, were not removed; the people had not yet set their hearts on the God of their fathers. 34As for the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, from beginning to end, they are indeed written in the Chronicles of Jehu son of Hanani, which are recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel. Jehoshaphat’s Fleet Is Wrecked 35Later, Jehoshaphat king of Judah made an alliance with Ahaziah king of Israel, who acted wickedly.h 36They agreed to make ships to go to Tarshish,i and these were built in Ezion-geber. 37Then Eliezer son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, “Because you have allied yourself with Ahaziah, the LORD has destroyed your works.” So the ships were wrecked and were unable to sail to Tarshish.j Footnotes: 1 a Some LXX manuscripts (see also 2 Chronicles 26:7); Hebrew together with some other Ammonites or together with some besides the Ammonites 2 b One Hebrew manuscript; most Hebrew manuscripts, LXX, and Vulgate Aram 2 c That is, the Dead Sea 9 d Or the sword of judgment 23 e Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. 25 f Some Hebrew manuscripts and Vulgate they found among them an abundance of goods and clothing and valuables 26 g Beracah means blessing. 35 h Or who made him act wickedly or by which he acted wickedly 36 i Or a fleet of trading ships 37 j Or set sail to trade Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Chronicles 20 Summary War against Jehoshaphat Verses 1–4 – Alarm and Gathering A vast force of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites comes against Judah. Jehoshaphat is afraid, but he “set his face to seek the LORD” and proclaims a national fast. People stream to Jerusalem to seek help from God. Verses 5–12 – Jehoshaphat’s Prayer Standing in the new outer court, the king reminds the people who God is, recalls past victories, points to the present threat, confesses, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (v 12). Verses 13–17 – God’s Word through Jahaziel As all Judah stands before the LORD, the Spirit comes on Jahaziel, a Levite from the singers’ line of Asaph. He declares, “Do not be afraid or discouraged…for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (v 15). Judah is told to march out, take positions, and watch God act. Verses 18–19 – Worship before the Battle Jehoshaphat and the people bow low; Levites stand up to praise “with a very loud voice.” Verses 20–23 – Choir Leads, Enemy Destroyed The next morning the king urges faith: “Believe in the LORD your God and you will be upheld” (v 20). Singers go ahead of the army, repeating, “Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever” (v 21). God sets ambushes; the enemy coalition turns on itself. Verses 24–26 – Valley of Beracah Spoils Judah arrives to find nothing but corpses. Three days are spent gathering abundant plunder. They bless the LORD in the Valley of Beracah (Blessing). Verses 27–30 – Joyful Return and Peace With harps, lyres, and trumpets they return to Jerusalem. “The dread of God came on all the kingdoms” (v 29), and Jehoshaphat enjoys rest on every side. Verses 31–34 – Jehoshaphat’s Legacy The Chronicler summarizes the king’s 25–year reign—walking in the ways of Asa, removing high places imperfectly, and maintaining judicial reforms. Verses 35–37 – Unwise Alliance and Shipwreck Late in life Jehoshaphat joins Ahaziah of Israel to build Tarshish ships. The prophet Eliezer announces judgment; the fleet wrecks at Ezion-geber. 2 Chronicles 20 showcases a pivotal moment in the reign of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah. Faced with a vast enemy force, Jehoshaphat turns to the Lord in prayer and fasting, leading his people in seeking divine guidance. This chapter is a profound testament to the power of faith, prayer, and obedience to God’s command. Historical Setting of Jehoshaphat’s Time • Reigned c. 872–848 BC in the southern kingdom of Judah, overlapping Ahab, Ahaziah, and Jehoram in the north. • The Chronicler writes after the exile, highlighting faithfulness that brings blessing. • Judah was small compared to surrounding nations, making divine help crucial. The Invading Coalition: Moab, Ammon, Meunites (Edomites) • Moab and Ammon, descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:36-38), lived east of the Dead Sea. • The Meunites (or “people of Mount Seir”) were from Edom to the south. • Earlier, God had forbidden Israel to fight these relatives during the wilderness march (Deuteronomy 2:4-9, 19). Now they break covenant and invade via the Dead Sea’s western shore, landing at En-gedi—only a day’s march from Jerusalem. Geography & Archaeology: En-gedi, Tekoa, Valley of Beracah • En-gedi (“spring of the wild goat”) sits halfway down the Dead Sea’s western side, an oasis with caves where David once hid (1 Samuel 24). • Tekoa, Jehoshaphat’s rally point, Isaiah 10 mi/16 km south of Jerusalem on a ridge overlooking the wilderness. • The exact Valley of Beracah is uncertain; most scholars place it on the route from Tekoa toward the desert, perhaps modern Wadi Bereikut. No firm dig confirms the spot, but the name still clings to local Arabic toponyms. • Pottery and fortifications from the 9th century BC unearthed in Judah show rapid fortifying during this period, aligning with the need to defend against eastern raids. Pattern of Jehoshaphat’s Prayer (vv 6–12) 1. Exalt God’s sovereignty (“Power and might are in Your hand”). 2. Remember past acts (“You drove out the inhabitants of this land”). 3. Claim covenant promises (Abraham is “Your friend forever”). 4. State the present crisis honestly. 5. Confess dependence: “We are powerless…our eyes are on You.” This five-step pattern echoes Solomon’s temple prayer (2 Chron 6) and sets a template for believers today. Music and Worship as Warfare • Singers lead before soldiers, mirroring earlier processions (2 Chron 5:12-14). • Similar scenes: Jericho’s trumpets (Joshua 6); Paul and Silas singing in prison (Acts 16:25-26). • Worship focuses on God’s steadfast love (“chesed”), the same refrain sung when the glory filled Solomon’s temple (2 Chron 5:13). Praise invites God’s presence and power. “The Battle Is Not Yours” – Echoes in Scripture • Exodus 14:14 – “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” • 1 Samuel 17:47 – “the battle belongs to the LORD.” • 2 Kings 19:35 – Angel of the LORD strikes the Assyrian camp. • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.” God repeatedly shows His people that trust, not numbers or weapons, secures victory. Three Days of Gathering Spoils • Plunder so large it takes three days recalls Israel leaving Egypt laden with Egypt’s treasures (Exodus 12:35-36). • Material blessing underscores spiritual truth: when God fights, His people receive more than survival—they receive abundance. Fear of God on Neighboring Nations (v 29) • Deuteronomy 2:25 predicted dread of Israel would fall on nations when they heard what God did. • This peace resembles the early days of Solomon (1 Kings 4:24). Faithful leadership renews those blessings. Alliance with Ahaziah – A Lesson in Compromise • Earlier, Jehoshaphat almost died helping Ahab at Ramoth-gilead (2 Chron 19:2). He learned—but not fully. • Partnering with Ahaziah, “who acted wickedly,” ends with shipwreck. 1 Corinthians 15:33 reminds: “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Ezion-geber’s harbor (modern Elat) has yielded Iron-Age copper slag and ship fittings, showing the port’s significance for Red Sea trade. Leadership Principles from Jehoshaphat • Seek God first, not last. • Rally the whole community; children stood with parents (v 13). • Encourage people verbally: “Have faith…you will be upheld” (v 20). • Put worship at the forefront. • Beware recurring compromises; unfinished business can resurface. Foreshadowing Christ’s Victory • Judah’s king takes no sword yet wins, hinting at a future King who conquers through praise and surrender. • Colossians 2:15 – Christ “disarmed the powers and authorities…triumphing over them by the cross.” • Revelation 19 pictures worship in heaven preceding final victory, just as singers preceded Judah’s army. Practical Takeaways Today • When overwhelmed, admitting “We do not know what to do” is not defeat—it is faith’s starting line. • Fasting disciplines the heart, tuning it to God’s voice. • Praise reframes battles; anxiety shrinks when eyes lift to God’s steadfast love. • God still specializes in turning threats into testimonies and valleys into places of blessing. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Teaching Points Jehoshaphat's Fear and Faith Jehoshaphat was alarmed and set his face to seek the LORD (2 Chronicles 20:3). Despite his fear, Jehoshaphat's first response was to seek God, demonstrating that faith can coexist with fear. Corporate Prayer and Fasting Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast for all Judah, and they gathered to seek help from the LORD (2 Chronicles 20:4). This highlights the power of communal prayer and fasting in times of crisis. Acknowledging God's Sovereignty In his prayer, Jehoshaphat acknowledges God's power and past faithfulness (2 Chronicles 20:6-9). Recognizing God's sovereignty is crucial in building our trust in Him. God's Assurance through Jahaziel Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's (2 Chronicles 20:15). God reassures His people that He will fight for them. Worship as Warfare The Levites stood up to praise the LORD with a very loud voice (2 Chronicles 20:19). Worship becomes a weapon in spiritual battles. Victory through Obedience and Faith As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against their enemies (2 Chronicles 20:22). Obedience and faith in God's promises lead to victory. Practical Applications Seek God First In times of trouble, prioritize seeking God through prayer and fasting, just as Jehoshaphat did. Engage in Corporate Prayer Gather with fellow believers to pray and seek God's guidance and intervention. Remember God's Faithfulness Reflect on past instances of God's faithfulness to strengthen your faith in current challenges. Worship in the Midst of Trials Use worship as a means to focus on God's power and presence, even when circumstances seem dire. Trust in God's Promises Hold onto God's assurances and trust that He is fighting on your behalf. People 1. Jehoshaphat Jehoshaphat was the king of Judah who sought the Lord's guidance when faced with a vast army. His name in Hebrew, יְהוֹשָׁפָט (Yehoshafat), means "Yahweh has judged." He led the people in prayer and fasting, demonstrating his reliance on God. 2. Jehaziel Jehaziel was a Levite and a prophet who delivered God's message of assurance to Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. His name in Hebrew, יְחֲזִיאֵל (Yehazi'el), means "God sees." He proclaimed that the battle belonged to the Lord. 3. Ahab Although not directly involved in the events of 2 Chronicles 20, Ahab is mentioned in the context of Jehoshaphat's earlier alliance with him. Ahab was the king of Israel, known for his idolatry and opposition to God's prophets. 4. Ammonites, Moabites, and Meunites These groups formed the coalition of enemies that came against Judah. The Ammonites and Moabites were descendants of Lot, while the Meunites are less clearly identified but were likely a group from the region of Edom. 5. Levites The Levites, specifically from the Kohathites and Korahites, played a significant role in leading worship and praise to God during the crisis. Their involvement highlights the importance of worship in seeking divine intervention. 6. Asaph Asaph is not directly mentioned in this chapter, but the sons of Asaph are referenced as part of the Levitical singers. Asaph was a prominent figure in the temple worship, and his descendants continued his legacy. Places 1. Moab Moab is a region located east of the Dead Sea. The Moabites were descendants of Lot and often in conflict with Israel. In 2 Chronicles 20, the Moabites form part of the coalition against Judah. 2. Ammon Ammon is another region east of the Jordan River, inhabited by the Ammonites, also descendants of Lot. They join forces with Moab and others to attack Judah. 3. Mount Seir This is the mountainous region inhabited by the Edomites, descendants of Esau. The people of Mount Seir are part of the alliance against Judah in this chapter. 4. En Gedi En Gedi is an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. It is mentioned as a location where the enemy coalition was advancing towards Judah. 5. Jerusalem The capital city of Judah, where King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah gather to seek the Lord's help against the invading forces. Jerusalem is central to the narrative as the place of prayer and divine intervention. 6. Tekoa A town in Judah, south of Jerusalem. The people of Judah go out to the wilderness of Tekoa to face the enemy, following God's instructions. 7. Wilderness of Jeruel This is the location where God instructs Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah to position themselves to witness the deliverance He will provide. The exact location is not well-defined, but it is part of the broader wilderness area near Tekoa. Events 1. The Threat of Invasion Jehoshaphat is informed of a great multitude coming against him from Edom, beyond the sea. The Hebrew term "הֲמוֹן" (hamon) indicates a large, tumultuous crowd or army. (2 Chronicles 20:1-2) 2. Jehoshaphat Seeks the LORD Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolves to inquire of the LORD and proclaims a fast for all Judah. The Hebrew word "דָּרַשׁ" (darash) implies seeking with care and diligence. (2 Chronicles 20:3) 3. Judah Gathers to Seek Help The people of Judah come together to seek help from the LORD. The gathering emphasizes communal reliance on God. (2 Chronicles 20:4) 4. Jehoshaphat's Prayer Standing in the assembly, Jehoshaphat prays, acknowledging God's sovereignty and past deliverances. He appeals to God's covenant and promises. (2 Chronicles 20:5-12) 5. Prophecy of Jahaziel The Spirit of the LORD comes upon Jahaziel, who assures the people that the battle is God's, not theirs. The Hebrew "רוּחַ" (ruach) signifies the Spirit's empowering presence. (2 Chronicles 20:14-17) 6. Worship and Praise Jehoshaphat and the people bow down in worship, and the Levites stand to praise the LORD with a loud voice. The Hebrew "הָלַל" (halal) means to praise or boast in God. (2 Chronicles 20:18-19) 7. March to the Battlefield Early the next morning, they go out to the wilderness of Tekoa. Jehoshaphat encourages them to have faith in the LORD and His prophets. (2 Chronicles 20:20) 8. Singers Lead the Army Appointing singers to praise the LORD, they lead the army, singing, "Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever." The Hebrew "חֶסֶד" (chesed) refers to God's steadfast love. (2 Chronicles 20:21) 9. Divine Ambush As they begin to sing and praise, the LORD sets ambushes against the invading armies, causing them to destroy one another. (2 Chronicles 20:22-23) 10. Victory and Spoils Judah finds the enemy defeated and gathers abundant spoils for three days. The Hebrew "שָׁלָל" (shalal) denotes the plunder or loot taken from the enemy. (2 Chronicles 20:24-25) 11. Return to Jerusalem with Joy They return to Jerusalem with joy, playing harps, lyres, and trumpets, and go to the house of the LORD. (2 Chronicles 20:27-28) 12. Fear of God on Surrounding Kingdoms The fear of God falls on all the kingdoms of the lands when they hear how the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel. The Hebrew "פַּחַד" (pachad) indicates a fear or dread inspired by God's power. (2 Chronicles 20:29) 13. Peace and Rest The kingdom of Jehoshaphat is at peace, for God has given him rest on every side. The Hebrew "שָׁקַט" (shaqat) means to be quiet or at rest. (2 Chronicles 20:30) Lessons from 2 Chronicles 20 1. Seek the Lord in Times of Trouble When faced with overwhelming odds, King Jehoshaphat set a powerful example by seeking the Lord. "Jehoshaphat was afraid, and he resolved to seek the LORD" (2 Chronicles 20:3). This teaches us that in moments of fear and uncertainty, our first response should be to turn to God in prayer and seek His guidance. By doing so, we acknowledge His sovereignty and invite His intervention in our lives. 2. Gather Together in Unity Jehoshaphat called all of Judah to come together and seek the Lord. "So the people of Judah gathered to seek the LORD, and indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek Him" (2 Chronicles 20:4). This unity in seeking God reminds us of the power of community prayer and fellowship. When we come together in faith, we strengthen each other and create an environment where God’s presence is welcomed. 3. Remember God’s Faithfulness In his prayer, Jehoshaphat recalled God’s past deeds and promises. "Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel?" (2 Chronicles 20:7). Remembering how God has been faithful in the past can bolster our faith in the present. It’s a reminder that the same God who delivered us before is still with us today. 4. Acknowledge Our Limitations Jehoshaphat admitted their powerlessness against the vast army. "For we are powerless before this vast multitude coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12). Recognizing our limitations and turning our eyes to God is a powerful act of humility and trust. It’s an acknowledgment that we need His strength and wisdom to overcome our challenges. 5. Listen for God’s Voice God spoke through Jahaziel, assuring the people of His deliverance. "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s" (2 Chronicles 20:15). This highlights the importance of being attentive to God’s voice, whether through Scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. His guidance can bring peace and direction in the midst of chaos. 6. Stand Firm in Faith God instructed them to stand firm and see His salvation. "You need not fight this battle. Take up your positions, stand firm, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf" (2 Chronicles 20:17). Standing firm in faith means trusting God’s promises and being steadfast, even when circumstances seem daunting. It’s about holding onto His word and believing in His deliverance. 7. Worship as Warfare Jehoshaphat appointed singers to praise the Lord as they went out before the army. "Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever" (2 Chronicles 20:21). Worship is a powerful weapon in spiritual battles. It shifts our focus from the problem to the Problem Solver and invites God’s presence and power into our situation. 8. Witness God’s Deliverance As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against their enemies. "The LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chronicles 20:22). This demonstrates that when we trust and obey God, He fights on our behalf, often in ways we could never imagine. 9. Reap the Rewards of Faithfulness After the victory, the people of Judah collected an abundance of plunder. "There was so much plunder that it took three days to collect it" (2 Chronicles 20:25). God’s blessings often follow our faithfulness. When we trust Him and follow His lead, He provides abundantly, sometimes in unexpected ways. 10. Rest in God’s Peace The chapter concludes with peace in the land. "And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side" (2 Chronicles 20:30). True peace comes from God, and it is a gift that follows our reliance on Him. When we place our trust in the Lord, He grants us peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Topics 1. Jehoshaphat's Fear and Prayer (2 Chronicles 20:1-12) Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, is informed of a vast army coming against him. In his fear, he seeks the LORD and proclaims a fast throughout Judah. He prays in the assembly, acknowledging God's sovereignty and pleading for divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) indicates a deep reverence and awe, which drives Jehoshaphat to seek God earnestly. 2. The Prophecy of Jahaziel (2 Chronicles 20:13-17) As the people of Judah stand before the LORD, the Spirit of the LORD comes upon Jahaziel, who delivers a prophetic message. He assures them that the battle is not theirs but God's, instructing them not to fear and to stand firm. The Hebrew word for "Spirit" (רוּחַ, ruach) signifies the breath or wind of God, indicating divine inspiration and empowerment. 3. Jehoshaphat's Worship and Faith (2 Chronicles 20:18-21) Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah respond to the prophecy with worship. The king appoints singers to praise the LORD as they go out before the army, demonstrating faith in God's promise. The Hebrew term for "worship" (שָׁחָה, shachah) means to bow down, reflecting humility and submission to God. 4. God's Deliverance (2 Chronicles 20:22-24) As the people begin to sing and praise, the LORD sets ambushes against the enemy armies, leading to their defeat. The Hebrew root for "ambushes" (אָרַב, arab) implies a strategic and unexpected attack orchestrated by God, showcasing His power and sovereignty. 5. The Plunder and Thanksgiving (2 Chronicles 20:25-30) After the victory, Jehoshaphat and his people gather an abundance of plunder. They return to Jerusalem with joy, praising God in the temple. The Hebrew word for "plunder" (שָׁלָל, shalal) indicates the spoils of war, symbolizing God's provision and blessing. 6. Jehoshaphat's Reign and Legacy (2 Chronicles 20:31-37) The chapter concludes with a summary of Jehoshaphat's reign, highlighting his faithfulness to God. However, it also notes his alliance with Ahaziah, king of Israel, which was not pleasing to God. The Hebrew root for "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) conveys steadfastness and reliability, underscoring Jehoshaphat's commitment to God despite his imperfections. Themes 1. Divine Sovereignty and Human Dependence The chapter emphasizes God's supreme authority and the need for human reliance on Him. Jehoshaphat acknowledges God's power, saying, "O LORD, God of our fathers, are You not the God who is in heaven? And do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations?" (2 Chronicles 20:6). The Hebrew word for "rule" (מָשַׁל, mashal) underscores God's dominion over all. 2. Prayer and Fasting as Spiritual Warfare Jehoshaphat calls for a fast and seeks the Lord through prayer, demonstrating the importance of spiritual disciplines in facing challenges. "Jehoshaphat stood before the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem in the house of the LORD before the new courtyard" (2 Chronicles 20:5). The act of fasting (צוּם, tsom) is a humbling of oneself before God. 3. Community and Unity in Seeking God The people of Judah come together to seek the Lord, highlighting the power of communal prayer and unity. "All Judah was standing before the LORD with their infants, their wives, and their children" (2 Chronicles 20:13). The Hebrew word for "standing" (עָמַד, amad) implies a steadfast and united posture. 4. Prophetic Guidance and Assurance God provides direction and reassurance through the prophet Jahaziel, illustrating the role of prophecy in guiding God's people. "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s" (2 Chronicles 20:15). The Hebrew word for "battle" (מִלְחָמָה, milchamah) signifies a conflict that God Himself will fight. 5. Faith and Obedience Jehoshaphat and the people demonstrate faith by obeying God's instructions without hesitation. "Jehoshaphat bowed facedown, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down before the LORD to worship Him" (2 Chronicles 20:18). The act of bowing (כָּרַע, kara) is a physical expression of submission and trust. 6. Worship as a Weapon The chapter shows the power of worship in spiritual battles, as the people sing praises to God before the victory. "Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever" (2 Chronicles 20:21). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) reflects God's steadfast love and mercy. 7. Divine Deliverance and Victory God miraculously delivers Judah from their enemies, underscoring His ability to save. "The LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated" (2 Chronicles 20:22). The Hebrew word for "ambushes" (אֹרֵב, orev) indicates God's strategic intervention. 8. Rest and Peace as a Result of Trust in God The chapter concludes with peace and rest for Judah, demonstrating the outcome of trusting in God. "And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side" (2 Chronicles 20:30). The Hebrew word for "rest" (נ֫וּחַ, nuach) signifies a state of tranquility and security provided by God. Prayer Points Pray for Faith Over Fear Ask God to help you respond in faith rather than fear when facing overwhelming situations. Pray for Unity in Prayer Seek God's blessing on communal prayer efforts, asking for unity and strength among believers. Pray for a Heart of Worship Request a heart that worships God in all circumstances, recognizing His power and presence. Pray for Trust in God's Sovereignty Ask for the ability to trust in God's control and His promises, even when the outcome is uncertain. As we study 2 Chronicles 20, may we be encouraged to seek God wholeheartedly, trust in His promises, and worship Him in the midst of our battles. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could an alliance of hostile armies suddenly turn on each other and destroy themselves without any plausible explanation (2 Chronicles 20:22–23)? 2. Is there archaeological or historical evidence outside the Bible to corroborate this alleged miraculous victory (2 Chronicles 20)? 3. How did Jehoshaphat’s army manage to march forth singing and then gather the spoils without engaging in a standard military offensive (2 Chronicles 20:21–25)? 4. Why does this account depict God favoring one nation over others with a miraculous intervention while ignoring widespread conflicts elsewhere (2 Chronicles 20)? 5. Could the dramatic defeat of multiple enemies be a later exaggeration or symbolic account rather than a literal event (2 Chronicles 20)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How did Jehoshaphat react to the news of the advancing enemy army? How should we respond in situations of fear and uncertainty? 2. Discuss the significance of Jehoshaphat's prayer in verses 5-12. What can we learn from his prayer in our personal prayer life? 3. How does this chapter portray the power of collective worship and prayer? 4. Reflect on the prophecy of Jahaziel in verses 13-17. What does it teach us about God's involvement in our battles? 5. Why did God give Jehoshaphat and Judah victory when they did not physically fight the battle? 6. Discuss the role of praise in this chapter. How can praise impact our personal struggles? 7. How does the concept of "The battle belongs to the Lord" apply to contemporary life? 8. What can we learn from Jehoshaphat's approach to the crisis he faced? How can we apply this in our current struggles? 9. Reflect on the consequences of Jehoshaphat's alliance with King Jehoram. What does this teach us about the discernment of alliances and partnerships in our lives? 10. How does Jehoshaphat's reliance on God influence his leadership style? What leadership lessons can we draw from this chapter? 11. What does the chapter's outcome teach about the benefits of obedience to God? 12. How does the fear of God lead to peace, as seen in verses 29-30? 13. How can we practically express our faith and trust in God during difficult times? 14. Why is it important to remember past victories when facing present challenges? 15. In what ways can we apply the principle of divine intervention in our lives? 16. How can we cultivate an attitude of gratitude, similar to Jehoshaphat and his people after the victory? 17. How do the actions of the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites in this chapter reflect the consequences of pride and aggression? 18. What does Jehoshaphat's decision to inquire of the Lord before acting teach us about decision making? 19. How does this chapter encourage us to handle fear and anxiety? 20. How might Jehoshaphat's experiences in this chapter inform our understanding of God's character and His love for His people? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions