2 Chronicles 20:20

Commentary on 2 Chronicles 20:20

The verse from 2 Chronicles 20:20 records a pivotal moment in the history of Judah, offering timeless wisdom on faith and divine guidance. King Jehoshaphat, facing an overwhelming coalition of Ammonite, Moabite, and Meunite armies, had led his people in earnest prayer and sought the Lord's intervention. After receiving a prophetic word of assurance from Jahaziel, a Levite, Jehoshaphat and the people responded with worship. This verse captures Jehoshaphat's powerful exhortation to his people as they prepared to confront their enemies in the wilderness of Tekoa.

Context

King Jehoshaphat of Judah was a righteous king who sought to lead his people in obedience to God. However, he faced a formidable threat when a vast army marched against Judah (2 Chronicles 20:1). Overwhelmed, Jehoshaphat immediately proclaimed a fast throughout Judah and gathered the people to seek the Lord (2 Chronicles 20:3-4). In response to their prayer, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, who delivered a message of hope: the battle was not theirs, but God's, and they would not need to fight (2 Chronicles 20:15-17). It is in this context, on the morning of their march, that Jehoshaphat delivers his famous call to faith.

Key Themes and Messages

• Faith in God for Stability: Jehoshaphat's primary message is "Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established." This highlights that true security and firmness (establishment) come directly from trusting in God alone. In times of crisis, human strength or strategy may fail, but faith in God provides an unshakeable foundation.
• Belief in Prophets for Prosperity: The second part of his exhortation, "believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper," emphasizes the importance of heeding God's revealed word through His chosen messengers. Prosperity here extends beyond mere material wealth; it encompasses success, advancement, and well-being in all aspects of life, particularly in fulfilling God's purposes. This principle reinforces the idea that obedience to divine instruction leads to blessing.
• The Interconnectedness of Faith and Action: The verse demonstrates that while God promises deliverance, human response is still required. The people had to rise early and go forth, but their action was to be rooted in faith, not fear.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words behind "established" and "prosper" carry significant meaning:

• "Established" (אֱמָנוּ - amanu): This word is related to the root 'aman, from which we get "Amen." It signifies firmness, reliability, faithfulness, and security. To be "established" means to be made firm, steady, and secure, implying an unshakeable foundation and divine support. This concept is echoed in Isaiah 7:9, "If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established."
• "Prosper" (צָלַח - tsalach): This term means to advance, succeed, be profitable, or be fortunate. It suggests a movement forward and a favorable outcome. When God causes one to prosper, it implies that the path will be made straight and successful, aligning with His will.

Practical Application

Jehoshaphat's words resonate powerfully with believers today:

1. Trust God in Every Crisis: Like Judah, we face challenges that seem insurmountable. This verse reminds us that our first response should be to place our complete trust in the Lord, believing in His power and faithfulness to deliver. Proverbs 3:5-6 similarly encourages us to "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."
2. Heed God's Word: Whether through the Bible, godly counsel, or prophetic revelation aligned with Scripture, listening to and obeying God's messengers and His written Word is crucial for navigating life successfully. Our prosperity, in its truest sense, is tied to our obedience to God's instructions.
3. Faith Precedes Victory: Jehoshaphat's call came *before* the battle. Often, God requires us to step out in faith before we see His deliverance. Our belief is the key to unlocking God's establishment and prosperity in our lives.