Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Jehoshaphat's Victories

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Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, is renowned for his devout leadership and military successes, which were marked by the disciplined organization of his armies. His reign, as recorded in the biblical narrative, highlights the importance of faith, obedience, and strategic military organization in achieving victory.

Jehoshaphat's Reforms and Military Organization

Jehoshaphat ascended to the throne following the reign of his father, Asa. He is noted for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people of Judah back to the worship of Yahweh. His commitment to God was mirrored in his military strategies, which were characterized by meticulous organization and reliance on divine guidance.

In 2 Chronicles 17:10-19, the Bible describes how Jehoshaphat fortified Judah by stationing troops in all the fortified cities and placing garrisons in the land. He organized his army into divisions, each led by capable commanders. The text states, "These are their numbers according to their ancestral houses: from Judah, commanders of thousands: Adnah the commander, and with him 300,000 mighty men of valor; next to him, Jehohanan the commander, and with him 280,000; next to him, Amasiah son of Zichri, who volunteered himself to the LORD, and with him 200,000 mighty men of valor" (2 Chronicles 17:14-16).

The Battle Against Moab and Ammon

One of Jehoshaphat's most notable military engagements was against the coalition of Moab, Ammon, and some of the Meunites. This formidable alliance posed a significant threat to Judah. In response, Jehoshaphat sought the Lord's guidance, demonstrating his reliance on divine intervention rather than solely on military might.

The account in 2 Chronicles 20 details how Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast throughout Judah and gathered the people to seek the Lord's help. In his prayer, Jehoshaphat acknowledged God's sovereignty and past deliverances, saying, "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).

God responded through the prophet Jahaziel, assuring Jehoshaphat and the people that the battle belonged to the Lord. The next day, Jehoshaphat's army marched out, not with weapons drawn, but with singers leading the way, praising the Lord. As they sang, "Give thanks to the LORD, for His loving devotion endures forever," the Lord set ambushes against the enemy forces, causing them to turn on each other (2 Chronicles 20:21-22).

Victory and Spoils

The victory was decisive, and the enemy was completely defeated without Judah having to engage in battle. The disciplined ranks of Jehoshaphat's army, combined with their faith and obedience, resulted in a triumph that brought peace and prosperity to Judah. The spoils of war were abundant, and the fear of the Lord fell upon the surrounding kingdoms, securing Judah's borders and ensuring a period of peace.

Jehoshaphat's victories underscore the biblical principle that success in battle is not solely dependent on human strength or numbers but on faithfulness to God and adherence to His commands. His reign serves as a testament to the power of organized, faith-driven military strategy in achieving divine purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 3:1
Now Jehoram the son of Ahab began to reign over Israel in Samaria the eighteenth year of Jehoshaphat king of Judah, and reigned twelve years.
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2 Chronicles 20:1
It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them other beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.
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Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... He could either continue his march westwards, and, penetrating ... till he had annihilated
its armies and rased ... Indeed, as we have seen, Jehoshaphat, encouraged by ...
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