2 Chronicles 20:4

And Judah gathered themselves together, to ask [help] of the LORD: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD.

And Judah {H3063} gathered themselves together {H6908}, to ask {H1245} help of the LORD {H3068}: even out of all the cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063} they came {H935} to seek {H1245} the LORD {H3068}.

and Y'hudah assembled to seek help from ADONAI; they came from all the cities of Y'hudah to seek ADONAI.

So the people of Judah gathered to seek the LORD, and indeed, they came from all the cities of Judah to seek Him.

And Judah gathered themselves together, to seek help of Jehovah: even out of all the cities of Judah they came to seek Jehovah.

Commentary

Context

2 Chronicles 20:4 details the immediate response of the kingdom of Judah after King Jehoshaphat learned of an impending invasion by a vast coalition of armies (Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites). Following Jehoshaphat's initial fear and his decision to proclaim a fast throughout all Judah, this verse highlights the nation's collective action. It describes how people from 'all the cities of Judah' united with a singular purpose: to 'ask help of the LORD' and 'seek the LORD'. This gathering signifies a national act of repentance and desperate reliance on divine intervention in the face of an overwhelming threat.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unified Prayer and Dependence: The verse powerfully illustrates the principle of seeking God in times of crisis. It wasn't just King Jehoshaphat, but the entire nation that recognized their dire need for divine assistance. This national gathering signifies a profound act of humility and corporate faith, acknowledging that their human strength was insufficient against such overwhelming odds.
  • Prioritizing God's Help: In the face of an existential threat, Judah's first and most crucial strategic move was spiritual. Instead of immediately mobilizing military defenses, they prioritized seeking the Lord as their ultimate refuge and strength. This demonstrates a deep trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver, setting an example of faith over fear.
  • National Humility and Seeking God: The act of gathering from "all the cities of Judah" to "seek the LORD" underscores a widespread recognition of God's authority and their collective need for His favor. It represents a spiritual awakening and a turning away from self-reliance.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "to seek the LORD" in Hebrew is darash Yahweh (Χ“Χ¨Χ© Χ™Χ”Χ•Χ”). The verb darash implies a diligent, earnest inquiry, a fervent seeking or petitioning, rather than a casual request. It suggests a thorough and persistent turning to God, reflecting a deep spiritual need and active pursuit of His will and help. This isn't just asking; it's an intense, focused appeal, indicative of their desperation and faith.

Practical Application

2 Chronicles 20:4 serves as a timeless model for both individuals and communities facing overwhelming challenges. It encourages us to:

  • Turn to God First: In times of fear, uncertainty, or crisis, our first response should be to turn to God in earnest prayer, rather than relying solely on our own resources or strategies.
  • Embrace Corporate Prayer: The example of Judah reminds us of the power of united, corporate prayer and the strength found in seeking God's face together during national, communal, or even family crises.
  • Trust in Divine Deliverance: It reinforces the truth that true help and deliverance ultimately come from the Lord, fostering a spirit of dependence and faith. Just as God delivered Judah (as seen later in 2 Chronicles 20:15), He remains faithful to those who earnestly seek Him.
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Cross-References

  • Psalms 50:15

    And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

  • Psalms 60:10

    [Wilt] not thou, O God, [which] hadst cast us off? and [thou], O God, [which] didst not go out with our armies?

  • Psalms 60:12

    Through God we shall do valiantly: for he [it is that] shall tread down our enemies.

  • Psalms 34:5

    They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

  • Psalms 34:6

    This poor man cried, and the LORD heard [him], and saved him out of all his troubles.

  • Psalms 69:35

    For God will save Zion, and will build the cities of Judah: that they may dwell there, and have it in possession.

  • 2 Chronicles 19:5

    ΒΆ And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city,
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