2 Chronicles 17:10

¶ And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that [were] round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.

And the fear {H6343} of the LORD {H3068} fell upon all the kingdoms {H4467} of the lands {H776} that were round about {H5439} Judah {H3063}, so that they made no war {H3898} against Jehoshaphat {H3092}.

A panic from ADONAI seized all the kingdoms in the lands surrounding Y'hudah, so that they did not make war against Y'hoshafat.

And the dread of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that surrounded Judah, so that they did not make war against Jehoshaphat.

And the fear of Jehovah fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.

Commentary

Context

Second Chronicles 17 details the early, prosperous reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Unlike his father Asa in his later years, or the idolatrous kings of Israel, Jehoshaphat committed himself to walking in the ways of the Lord. He strengthened Judah's defenses, but more importantly, he initiated a significant spiritual revival throughout the land. He sent princes, Levites, and priests to teach the Law of the Lord in all the cities of Judah (2 Chronicles 17:9). Verse 10 serves as a direct testament to the divine favor and protection that resulted from this national devotion and the king's faithfulness.

Key Themes

  • Divine Protection and Security: This verse powerfully illustrates how God defends His faithful people. Because of Judah's renewed commitment to Him, the surrounding nations, who might otherwise have been hostile, were deterred from aggression. This highlights God's ability to influence the hearts and actions of even foreign powers for the sake of His people.
  • The Fear of the Lord as a Deterrent: The phrase "the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms" is central. This was not merely a psychological fear, but a divinely instilled awe or dread that paralyzed their aggressive intentions. It underscores that true peace and national security often come not from military might alone, but from divine intervention and the respect God commands.
  • Blessings of Obedience: Jehoshaphat's proactive steps to seek the Lord and teach His commandments brought tangible blessings. His reign was characterized by peace and prosperity, a clear demonstration that obedience to God leads to favorable outcomes, including protection from enemies.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "the fear of the LORD" translates from the Hebrew yir’at Yahweh (יִרְאַת יְהוָה). This term signifies more than just terror; it encompasses a profound sense of awe, reverence, respect, and submission to God's power and authority. When it "fell upon" the kingdoms, it means God Himself instilled this deep respect and dread, causing them to recognize His sovereign power at work through Judah. This divinely orchestrated fear prevented them from engaging in conflict with Jehoshaphat.

Significance and Application

This verse offers a timeless principle: when a people or an individual walks in obedience and seeks God's ways, divine favor and protection can be expected. For King Jehoshaphat, this meant peace and security from hostile neighbors, allowing Judah to flourish.

  • God Honors Faithfulness: Just as God protected Judah, He continues to honor those who diligently seek Him and walk in His truth. Our security and peace are ultimately found in Him, not solely in human efforts or defenses.
  • Peace as a Divine Gift: This passage reminds us that peace is often a gift from God, a result of His powerful influence over circumstances and people. It encourages believers to pray for the peace of their nations and to live in a way that honors God, trusting Him for protection.
  • Relevance Today: While we may not face literal armies at our borders, the principle remains: living in reverence and obedience to God can bring an unexpected sense of peace and protection in various aspects of life, whether personal, communal, or national. It highlights that God's power is supreme over all earthly powers.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 14:14 (6 votes)

    And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them.

  • Exodus 15:14 (5 votes)

    The people shall hear, [and] be afraid: sorrow shall take hold on the inhabitants of Palestina.

  • Exodus 15:16 (5 votes)

    Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be [as] still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.

  • Exodus 34:24 (5 votes)

    For I will cast out the nations before thee, and enlarge thy borders: neither shall any man desire thy land, when thou shalt go up to appear before the LORD thy God thrice in the year.

  • Proverbs 16:7 (5 votes)

    ¶ When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

  • 2 Chronicles 16:9 (5 votes)

    For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

  • Genesis 35:5 (4 votes)

    And they journeyed: and the terror of God was upon the cities that [were] round about them, and they did not pursue after the sons of Jacob.