2 Chronicles 20:11

2 Chronicles 20:11 (KJV) captures a poignant moment in King Jehoshaphat's prayer during a severe national crisis, highlighting Judah's vulnerable position and their appeal to God's faithfulness regarding His covenant promises.

Context

This verse is part of King Jehoshaphat's earnest prayer recorded in 2 Chronicles chapter 20. Judah was facing an overwhelming invasion by a vast coalition of armies: the Moabites, Ammonites, and some Meunites. Upon hearing the news, Jehoshaphat's initial fear quickly turned to seeking the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. In his public prayer before the assembly, Jehoshaphat recounts God's past mercies and power, then presents the current predicament. Verse 11 specifically expresses his plea regarding the invaders' intent to dispossess Judah from the very land God had given them as an inheritance.

Key Themes

• Divine Sovereignty and Promise: Jehoshaphat reminds God that the land of Judah (Canaan) was not merely a conquest but a "possession, which thou hast given us to inherit." This refers to God's ancient covenant with Abraham, reiterated to Moses, promising the land to Israel. The invaders are attempting to seize what rightfully belongs to God's chosen people by divine decree.
• Injustice and Betrayal: The phrase "how they reward us" carries a tone of disbelief and indignation. Historically, Israel had been commanded not to harass the Ammonites or Moabites during their exodus from Egypt (Deuteronomy 2:9, Deuteronomy 2:19). Now, these nations were repaying that forbearance with aggression, seeking to expel Judah from their God-given territory.
• Reliance on God: Jehoshaphat, despite his earthly authority, does not rely on military strategy alone. His prayer is a profound act of humility and absolute dependence on God's intervention, acknowledging that only God can deliver them from such an overwhelming force.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "thy possession, which thou hast given us to inherit" emphasizes the nature of the land as a divine gift. The Hebrew word for "possession" here, morashah (מוֹרָשָׁה), strongly conveys the idea of an inherited estate or legacy, something passed down and rightfully owned. This term underscores the covenantal basis of Israel's claim to the land, not by human might, but by God's sovereign grant.

Related Scriptures

• The promise of the land to Abraham: Genesis 15:18.
• God's promise to Israel of a land flowing with milk and honey: Exodus 3:8.
• Jehoshaphat's declaration of Judah's helplessness without God: 2 Chronicles 20:12.
• The miraculous deliverance God provides: 2 Chronicles 20:22-24.

Practical Application

2 Chronicles 20:11 offers powerful lessons for believers today. When faced with overwhelming challenges or threats that seem to undermine what God has promised or given us, we are called to:

1. Acknowledge God's Ownership: Recognize that all we have, including our blessings and even our very lives, are gifts from God.
2. Remind God of His Promises: Like Jehoshaphat, we can confidently bring our petitions to God, reminding Him of His character and His unfailing word, trusting in His plans for our welfare and not for evil.
3. Present the Injustice: It is appropriate to lay before God the perceived injustices or threats from external forces, trusting in His ultimate justice and sovereignty.
4. Seek God First: Jehoshaphat's immediate response to crisis was to seek the Lord, setting an example for us to turn to prayer and fasting when facing daunting circumstances.

This verse underscores the principle of trusting God's faithfulness even when circumstances seem dire, remembering that His gifts and promises are secure.