May 2, 2025
Keeping our eyes on you, God.
2 Chronicles 19-23
Leila Myers
Big Book Idea
Good spiritual leaders can have a powerful impact.
Key Verse | 2 Chronicles 20:12
"O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you."
2 Chronicles 19-23
Chapter 19
Jehoshaphat's Reforms
1 Jehoshaphat the king of Judah returned in safety to his house in Jerusalem. 2 But Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him and said to King Jehoshaphat, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, wrath has gone out against you from the LORD. 3 Nevertheless, some good is found in you, for you destroyed the Asheroth out of the land, and have set your heart to seek God.”
4 Jehoshaphat lived at Jerusalem. And he went out again among the people, from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim, and brought them back to the LORD, the God of their fathers. 5 He appointed judges in the land in all the fortified cities of Judah, city by city, 6 and said to the judges, “Consider what you do, for you judge not for man but for the LORD. He is with you in giving judgment. 7 Now then, let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the LORD our God, or partiality or taking bribes.”
8 Moreover, in Jerusalem Jehoshaphat appointed certain Levites and priests and heads of families of Israel, to give judgment for the LORD and to decide disputed cases. They had their seat at Jerusalem. 9 And he charged them: “Thus you shall do in the fear of the LORD, in faithfulness, and with your whole heart: 10 whenever a case comes to you from your brothers who live in their cities, concerning bloodshed, law or commandment, statutes or rules, then you shall warn them, that they may not incur guilt before the LORD and wrath may not come upon you and your brothers. Thus you shall do, and you will not incur guilt. 11 And behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of the LORD; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the governor of the house of Judah, in all the king's matters, and the Levites will serve you as officers. Deal courageously, and may the LORD be with the upright!” 1 19:11 Hebrew the good
Chapter 20
Jehoshaphat's Prayer
1 After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites, 2 20:1 Compare 26:7; Hebrew Ammonites came against Jehoshaphat for battle. 2 Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, 3 20:2 One Hebrew manuscript; most Hebrew manuscripts Aram (Syria) from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). 3 Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 And Judah assembled to seek help from the LORD; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD.
5 And Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD, before the new court, 6 and said, “O LORD, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you. 7 Did you not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel, and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend? 8 And they have lived in it and have built for you in it a sanctuary for your name, saying, 9 ‘If disaster comes upon us, the sword, judgment, 4 20:9 Or the sword of judgment or pestilence, or famine, we will stand before this house and before you—for your name is in this house—and cry out to you in our affliction, and you will hear and save.’ 10 And now behold, the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir, whom you would not let Israel invade when they came from the land of Egypt, and whom they avoided and did not destroy— 11 behold, they reward us by coming to drive us out of your possession, which you have given us to inherit. 12 O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”
13 Meanwhile all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children. 14 And the Spirit of the LORD came 5 20:14 Or was upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, in the midst of the assembly. 15 And he said, “Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, ‘Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's. 16 Tomorrow go down against them. Behold, they will come up by the ascent of Ziz. You will find them at the end of the valley, east of the wilderness of Jeruel. 17 You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the LORD will be with you.”
18 Then Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the LORD, worshiping the LORD. 19 And the Levites, of the Kohathites and the Korahites, stood up to praise the LORD, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.
20 And they rose early in the morning and went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. And when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Hear me, Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be established; believe his prophets, and you will succeed.” 21 And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the LORD and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say,
“Give thanks to the LORD,
for his steadfast love endures forever.”
22 And when they began to sing and praise, the LORD set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed. 23 For the men of Ammon and Moab rose against the inhabitants of Mount Seir, devoting them to destruction, and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, they all helped to destroy one another.
The LORD Delivers Judah
24 When Judah came to the watchtower of the wilderness, they looked toward the horde, and behold, there 6 20:24 Hebrew they were dead bodies lying on the ground; none had escaped. 25 When Jehoshaphat and his people came to take their spoil, they found among them, in great numbers, goods, clothing, and precious things, which they took for themselves until they could carry no more. They were three days in taking the spoil, it was so much. 26 On the fourth day they assembled in the Valley of Beracah, 7 20:26 Beracah means blessing for there they blessed the LORD. Therefore the name of that place has been called the Valley of Beracah to this day. 27 Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat at their head, returning to Jerusalem with joy, for the LORD had made them rejoice over their enemies. 28 They came to Jerusalem with harps and lyres and trumpets, to the house of the LORD. 29 And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel. 30 So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet, for his God gave him rest all around.
31 Thus Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi. 32 He walked in the way of Asa his father and did not turn aside from it, doing what was right in the sight of the LORD. 33 The high places, however, were not taken away; the people had not yet set their hearts upon the God of their fathers.
34 Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, from first to last, are written in the chronicles of Jehu the son of Hanani, which are recorded in the Book of the Kings of Israel.
The End of Jehoshaphat's Reign
35 After this Jehoshaphat king of Judah joined with Ahaziah king of Israel, who acted wickedly. 36 He joined him in building ships to go to Tarshish, and they built the ships in Ezion-geber. 37 Then Eliezer the son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, “Because you have joined with Ahaziah, the LORD will destroy what you have made.” And the ships were wrecked and were not able to go to Tarshish.
Chapter 21
Jehoram Reigns in Judah
1 Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers and was buried with his fathers in the city of David, and Jehoram his son reigned in his place. 2 He had brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat: Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah; all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel. 8 21:2 That is, Judah 3 Their father gave them great gifts of silver, gold, and valuable possessions, together with fortified cities in Judah, but he gave the kingdom to Jehoram, because he was the firstborn. 4 When Jehoram had ascended the throne of his father and was established, he killed all his brothers with the sword, and also some of the princes of Israel. 5 Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. 6 And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done, for the daughter of Ahab was his wife. And he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. 7 Yet the LORD was not willing to destroy the house of David, because of the covenant that he had made with David, and since he had promised to give a lamp to him and to his sons forever.
8 In his days Edom revolted from the rule of Judah and set up a king of their own. 9 Then Jehoram passed over with his commanders and all his chariots, and he rose by night and struck the Edomites who had surrounded him and his chariot commanders. 10 So Edom revolted from the rule of Judah to this day. At that time Libnah also revolted from his rule, because he had forsaken the LORD, the God of his fathers.
11 Moreover, he made high places in the hill country of Judah and led the inhabitants of Jerusalem into whoredom and made Judah go astray. 12 And a letter came to him from Elijah the prophet, saying, “Thus says the LORD, the God of David your father, ‘Because you have not walked in the ways of Jehoshaphat your father, or in the ways of Asa king of Judah, 13 but have walked in the way of the kings of Israel and have enticed Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem into whoredom, as the house of Ahab led Israel into whoredom, and also you have killed your brothers, of your father's house, who were better than you, 14 behold, the LORD will bring a great plague on your people, your children, your wives, and all your possessions, 15 and you yourself will have a severe sickness with a disease of your bowels, until your bowels come out because of the disease, day by day.’”
16 And the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the anger 9 21:16 Hebrew spirit of the Philistines and of the Arabians who are near the Ethiopians. 17 And they came up against Judah and invaded it and carried away all the possessions they found that belonged to the king's house, and also his sons and his wives, so that no son was left to him except Jehoahaz, his youngest son.
18 And after all this the LORD struck him in his bowels with an incurable disease. 19 In the course of time, at the end of two years, his bowels came out because of the disease, and he died in great agony. His people made no fire in his honor, like the fires made for his fathers. 20 He was thirty-two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. And he departed with no one's regret. They buried him in the city of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.
Chapter 22
Ahaziah Reigns in Judah
1 And the inhabitants of Jerusalem made Ahaziah, his youngest son, king in his place, for the band of men that came with the Arabians to the camp had killed all the older sons. So Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah reigned. 2 Ahaziah was twenty-two 10 22:2 See 2 Kings 8:26; Hebrew forty-two; Septuagint twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned one year in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Athaliah, the granddaughter of Omri. 3 He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother was his counselor in doing wickedly. 4 He did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, as the house of Ahab had done. For after the death of his father they were his counselors, to his undoing. 5 He even followed their counsel and went with Jehoram the son of Ahab king of Israel to make war against Hazael king of Syria at Ramoth-gilead. And the Syrians wounded Joram, 6 and he returned to be healed in Jezreel of the wounds that he had received at Ramah, when he fought against Hazael king of Syria. And Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah went down to see Joram the son of Ahab in Jezreel, because he was wounded.
7 But it was ordained by 11 22:7 Hebrew was from God that the downfall of Ahaziah should come about through his going to visit Joram. For when he came there, he went out with Jehoram to meet Jehu the son of Nimshi, whom the LORD had anointed to destroy the house of Ahab. 8 And when Jehu was executing judgment on the house of Ahab, he met the princes of Judah and the sons of Ahaziah's brothers, who attended Ahaziah, and he killed them. 9 He searched for Ahaziah, and he was captured while hiding in Samaria, and he was brought to Jehu and put to death. They buried him, for they said, “He is the grandson of Jehoshaphat, who sought the LORD with all his heart.” And the house of Ahaziah had no one able to rule the kingdom.
Athaliah Reigns in Judah
10 Now when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal family of the house of Judah. 11 But Jehoshabeath, 12 22:11 Spelled Jehosheba in 2 Kings 11:2 the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the king's sons who were about to be put to death, and she put him and his nurse in a bedroom. Thus Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram and wife of Jehoiada the priest, because she was a sister of Ahaziah, hid him 13 22:11 That is, Joash from Athaliah, so that she did not put him to death. 12 And he remained with them six years, hidden in the house of God, while Athaliah reigned over the land.
Chapter 23
Joash Made King
1 But in the seventh year Jehoiada took courage and entered into a covenant with the commanders of hundreds, Azariah the son of Jeroham, Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, Azariah the son of Obed, Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri. 2 And they went about through Judah and gathered the Levites from all the cities of Judah, and the heads of fathers' houses of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem. 3 And all the assembly made a covenant with the king in the house of God. And Jehoiada 14 23:3 Hebrew he said to them, “Behold, the king's son! Let him reign, as the LORD spoke concerning the sons of David. 4 This is the thing that you shall do: of you priests and Levites who come off duty on the Sabbath, one third shall be gatekeepers, 5 and one third shall be at the king's house and one third at the Gate of the Foundation. And all the people shall be in the courts of the house of the LORD. 6 Let no one enter the house of the LORD except the priests and ministering Levites. They may enter, for they are holy, but all the people shall keep the charge of the LORD. 7 The Levites shall surround the king, each with his weapons in his hand. And whoever enters the house shall be put to death. Be with the king when he comes in and when he goes out.”
8 The Levites and all Judah did according to all that Jehoiada the priest commanded, and they each brought his men, who were to go off duty on the Sabbath, with those who were to come on duty on the Sabbath, for Jehoiada the priest did not dismiss the divisions. 9 And Jehoiada the priest gave to the captains the spears and the large and small shields that had been King David's, which were in the house of God. 10 And he set all the people as a guard for the king, every man with his weapon in his hand, from the south side of the house to the north side of the house, around the altar and the house. 11 Then they brought out the king's son and put the crown on him and gave him the testimony. And they proclaimed him king, and Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and they said, “Long live the king.”
Athaliah Executed
12 When Athaliah heard the noise of the people running and praising the king, she went into the house of the LORD to the people. 13 And when she looked, there was the king standing by his pillar at the entrance, and the captains and the trumpeters beside the king, and all the people of the land rejoicing and blowing trumpets, and the singers with their musical instruments leading in the celebration. And Athaliah tore her clothes and cried, “Treason! Treason!” 14 Then Jehoiada the priest brought out the captains who were set over the army, saying to them, “Bring her out between the ranks, and anyone who follows her is to be put to death with the sword.” For the priest said, “Do not put her to death in the house of the LORD.” 15 So they laid hands on her, 15 23:15 Or they made a passage for her and she went into the entrance of the horse gate of the king's house, and they put her to death there.
Jehoiada's Reforms
16 And Jehoiada made a covenant between himself and all the people and the king that they should be the LORD's people. 17 Then all the people went to the house of Baal and tore it down; his altars and his images they broke in pieces, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars. 18 And Jehoiada posted watchmen for the house of the LORD under the direction of the Levitical priests and the Levites whom David had organized to be in charge of the house of the LORD, to offer burnt offerings to the LORD, as it is written in the Law of Moses, with rejoicing and with singing, according to the order of David. 19 He stationed the gatekeepers at the gates of the house of the LORD so that no one should enter who was in any way unclean. 20 And he took the captains, the nobles, the governors of the people, and all the people of the land, and they brought the king down from the house of the LORD, marching through the upper gate to the king's house. And they set the king on the royal throne. 21 So all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet after Athaliah had been put to death with the sword.
Footnotes
[1] 19:11 Hebrew the good[2] 20:1 Compare 26:7; Hebrew Ammonites
[3] 20:2 One Hebrew manuscript; most Hebrew manuscripts Aram (Syria)
[4] 20:9 Or the sword of judgment
[5] 20:14 Or was
[6] 20:24 Hebrew they
[7] 20:26 Beracah means blessing
[8] 21:2 That is, Judah
[9] 21:16 Hebrew spirit
[10] 22:2 See 2 Kings 8:26; Hebrew forty-two; Septuagint twenty
[11] 22:7 Hebrew was from
[12] 22:11 Spelled Jehosheba in 2 Kings 11:2
[13] 22:11 That is, Joash
[14] 23:3 Hebrew he
[15] 23:15 Or they made a passage for her
Table of Contents
Introduction to 1–2 Chronicles
Timeline
Author and Date
The text nowhere directly identifies its author, but traditionally he has been called “the Chronicler.” He was either a priest or Levite who was employed in the service of the temple during the Persian period (539–332 B.C.). He had scribal training and access to the temple records.
Basic Chronology of 1–2 Chronicles
| Events | Dates | Passages |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation of the Davidic monarchy | c. 1010–931 B.C. | 1 Chronicles 10–2 Chronicles 9 |
| History of Judah from the division of the kingdom until its fall | 931–586 | 2 Chron. 10:1–36:21 |
| Babylonian captivity | 586–538 | 2 Chron. 36:17–21 |
| Cyrus’s decree | 538 | 2 Chron. 36:22–23 |
Theme
The central theme of Chronicles is God’s covenant with David as the basis of Israel’s life and hope. The Davidic covenant is expressed in two institutions: the monarchy and the temple. These institutions are related (1 Chron. 17:10b–14), and together they represent God’s kingdom in Israel (2 Chron. 13:5, 8). The Davidic covenant does not replace the Mosaic covenant but builds on it for the new age of the monarchy and the temple.
Purpose, Occasion, and Background
Judah and Benjamin, the only surviving tribes of Israel, had returned to the land after the Babylonian exile. They had rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem. But in many ways it seemed like they were still in exile (see Ezra 9:6–15; Neh. 9:32–36). There were questions about Israel’s place in God’s purposes and the meaning of his ancient promises to David. With such questions in mind, the Chronicler wrote his books to promote spiritual and social renewal. He presented an interpretation of Israel’s past, drawing mainly on the books of Samuel and Kings. He showed how the nation’s unfaithfulness to God had led to disaster but also how its faithful kings and people had experienced God’s blessing.
Key Themes
- The Davidic covenant. God’s covenant with David preserved the nation and enabled Solomon to build the temple. God is committed to preserving the line of David’s descendants even through spiritual unfaithfulness (2 Chron. 21:13) and exile (1 Chron. 3:17–24). Being heirs of God’s covenant with David also involves living according to God’s earlier covenant with Moses.
- The temple. The temple is an expression of the Davidic covenant. David provided for the construction of the temple and organized its personnel. His faithful successors should ensure that the worship is maintained, and that the building is kept in repair and is purified after defilement. The temple personnel should come to the aid of the Davidic dynasty in times of crisis. The Levites played an essential role in maintaining the whole system of worship, and in many ways they are the forerunners of the Christian ministry.
- The people of Israel. The Chronicler sought to address some urgent questions of his day concerning the identity of Israel. He wanted to instill fresh confidence in the people. The genealogies of Israel that begin the work (1 Chronicles 1–9) start by tracing the people’s ancestry back to Adam, a striking reminder that Israel was at the center of God’s purpose from the very beginning of creation.
Second, the genealogies makes it clear that all 12 tribes were descended from Jacob’s sons (1 Chron. 2:1). The Chronicler’s history of the divided kingdom (2 Chronicles 10–36) focuses mainly on Judah and Benjamin. But he tries to show that the northern tribes are still a part of Israel, even though they rebelled against the rightful Davidic king (2 Chron. 13:5).
While the Chronicler does focus on the nation’s kings and its priesthood, he also includes many stories that highlight the participation of ordinary people in the life of the nation.
Outline for 1–2 Chronicles
- A Genealogical Presentation of the Tribes of Israel (1 Chron. 1:1–9:44)
- Adam to Esau (1:1–54)
- The sons of Israel (2:1–2)
- The tribe of Judah (2:3–4:23)
- The tribe of Simeon (4:24–43)
- The Transjordanian tribes (5:1–26)
- The tribe of Levi (6:1–81)
- Other northern tribes (7:1–40)
- The tribe of Benjamin (8:1–40)
- The resettlement of Jerusalem (9:1–34)
- The genealogy of Saul (9:35–44)
- The United Kingdom of David and Solomon (1 Chron. 10:1–2 Chron. 9:31)
- David’s rise to power over Israel (1 Chron. 10:1–12:40)
- David’s transfer of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem (13:1–16:43)
- The dynastic promise to David (17:1–27)
- David’s wars (18:1–20:8)
- David’s census and preparation for the temple (21:1–29:30)
- Solomon’s temple preparations (2 Chron. 1:1–2:18)
- Solomon’s building of the temple (3:1–5:1)
- The dedication of the temple (5:2–7:22)
- Solomon’s other accomplishments (8:1–16)
- Solomon’s international relations and renown (8:17–9:31)
- The Kingdom of Judah down to the Exile (2 Chron. 10:1–36:23)
- Rehoboam (10:1–12:16)
- Abijah (13:1–14:1)
- Asa (14:2–16:14)
- Jehoshaphat (17:1–21:1)
- Jehoram and Ahaziah (21:2–22:12)
- Joash (23:1–24:27)
- Amaziah (25:1–28)
- Uzziah (26:1–23)
- Jotham (27:1–9)
- Ahaz (28:1–27)
- Hezekiah (29:1–32:33)
- Manasseh (33:1–20)
- Amon (33:21–25)
- Josiah (34:1–35:27)
- The last four kings (36:1–21)
- Restoration (36:22–23)
The Extent of David’s Kingdom
The Extent of David’s Kingdom
1010–971 B.C.
David’s many battles eventually established Israel as the dominant power in Syria and Palestine. David expanded Israel’s borders until, by the end of his reign, he controlled all of Israel, Edom, Moab, Ammon, Syria, and Zobah. Other kingdoms, such as Tyre and Hamath, made treaties with him.
The Extent of Solomon’s Kingdom
The Extent of Solomon’s Kingdom
c. 971–931 B.C.
Solomon’s reign marked the high point of Israel’s power and wealth in biblical times. His father David had given him a kingdom that included Edom, Moab, Ammon, Syria, and Zobah. Solomon would later bring the kingdom of Hamath-zobah under his dominion as well, and his marriage to Pharaoh’s daughter sealed an alliance with Egypt. His expansive kingdom controlled important trade routes between several major world powers, including Egypt, Arabia, Mesopotamia, and Anatolia (Asia Minor).
Fact: How does Chronicles differ from Samuel and Kings?
How does Chronicles differ from Samuel and Kings? The books of 1–2 Samuel and 1–2 Kings show that the Lord drove Israel and Judah from their land because of their sin. The books of 1–2 Chronicles agree that Israel sinned and suffered exile as a result. They also show that God still had a purpose for his people.
Fact: Do the books of Chronicles have a main theme?
Do the books of Chronicles have a main theme? The central theme of 1–2 Chronicles is how God’s covenant with David provided an enduring hope for Israel, even in its darkest hours.
Fact: Second Chronicles covers a span
Second Chronicles covers a span of more than 400 years and the reigns of 20 different kings.
Fact: Tarshish
Tarshish (20:36) was a city at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea, possibly in Spain. It was famous for building ships to carry gold and silver to the Near East. Jonah tried to flee to Tarshish to avoid his responsibilities as a prophet.
Fact: Athaliah
Athaliah was the only woman to rule over Judah. She was the granddaughter of Omri and the daughter of Ahab. After seizing the throne and murdering the rest of the royal family, she reigned for six years before being overthrown. The young child Joash was hidden during her reign and became king after her death.
Fact: Why did the guards carry King David’s spears?
Why did the guards carry King David’s spears? Even though King David’s spears (23:9) were around 150 years old, they served an important purpose. Having the guards hold the spears at the coronation of Joash, who was only seven years old, symbolized his right to David’s throne.
Basic Chronology of 1–2 Chronicles
| Events | Dates | Passages |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation of the Davidic monarchy | c. 1010–931 B.C. | 1 Chronicles 10–2 Chronicles 9 |
| History of Judah from the division of the kingdom until its fall | 931–586 | 2 Chron. 10:1–36:21 |
| Babylonian captivity | 586–538 | 2 Chron. 36:17–21 |
| Cyrus’s decree | 538 | 2 Chron. 36:22–23 |
Comparison of 1–2 Chronicles with 2 Samuel and 1–2 Kings
| 1 Chronicles | 2 Samuel | |
|---|---|---|
| Genealogies | 1:1–9:44 | |
| Death of Saul and sons | 10:1–14 | 1 Sam. 31:1–2 Sam. 1:16 |
| Lament for Saul | 1:17–27 | |
| David king of Judah | 2:1–7 | |
| War between house of Saul and David; Ish-bosheth made king | 2:8–3:1 | |
| David’s sons in Hebron | 3:2–5 | |
| Abner helps David | 3:6–21 | |
| Joab kills Abner | 3:22–39 | |
| Ish-bosheth killed | 4:1–12 | |
| David king of Judah and Israel | 11:1–3 | 5:1–5 |
| Conquest of Jerusalem | 11:4–9 | 5:6–10 |
| David’s mighty men | 11:10–47 | 23:8–39 |
| David’s men at Ziklag | 12:1–22 | |
| Celebration at Hebron | 12:23–40 | |
| Attempted return of ark; death of Uzzah | 13:1–14 | 6:1–11 |
| David’s house built | 14:1–2 | 5:11–12 |
| David’s children in Jerusalem | 14:3–7 | 5:13–16 |
| David defeats Philistines | 14:8–17 | 5:17–25 |
| Spiritual preparation for the ark’s return | 15:1–24 | |
| Ark brought to Jerusalem | 15:25–16:6 | 6:12–19 |
| David and Michal | 6:20–23 | |
| David’s psalm of praise | 16:7–43 | |
| David’s desire to build the temple | 17:1–2 | 7:1–3 |
| Davidic covenant | 17:3–15 | 7:4–17 |
| David’s prayer of praise | 17:16–27 | 7:18–29 |
| David’s victories | 18:1–13 | 8:1–14 |
| David’s officials | 18:14–17 | 8:15–18 |
| David helps Mephibosheth | 9:1–13 | |
| Ammonites defeated | 19:1–15 | 10:1–14 |
| Syrians defeated | 19:16–19 | 10:15–19 |
| Ammonites defeated | 20:1–3 | 11:1; 12:26–31 |
| David and Bathsheba | 11:2–12:25 | |
| Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom | 13:1–14:33 | |
| Absalom’s rebellion | 15:1–19:43 | |
| Sheba’s rebellion | 20:1–26 | |
| Famine; death of Saul’s sons | 21:1–14 | |
| War with Philistines; the Philistine giants | 20:4–8 | 21:15–22 |
| David’s psalm of deliverance | 22:1–51 | |
| David’s last words | 23:1–7 | |
| David’s census | 21:1–27 | 24:1–25 |
| David plans for the temple | 21:28–22:5 | |
| David’s charge to Solomon and the leaders | 22:6–19 | |
| David organizes temple personnel | 23:1–26:32 | |
| Israel’s military | 27:1–15 | |
| Israel’s leaders | 27:16–34 | |
| David’s charge to Israel; affirmation of Solomon | 28:1–10 | |
| Pattern for the temple | 28:11–21 | |
| Offerings for the temple | 29:1–9 | |
| David’s prayer of thanks for the temple | 29:10–19 | |
| 1 Kings | ||
| David and Abishag | 1:1–4 | |
| Adonijah claims the throne | 1:5–27 | |
| Solomon’s coronation | 29:20–25 | 1:28–40 |
| David instructs Solomon | 2:1–9 | |
| Death of David | 29:26–30 | 2:10–11 |
| Solomon establishes his kingdom | 2:12–46 | |
| 2 Chronicles | ||
| Solomon marries Pharaoh’s daughter | 3:1–3 | |
| Solomon at Gibeon | 1:1–6 | 3:4 |
| God gives Solomon wisdom | 1:7–12 | 3:5–14 |
| Solomon’s wise judgment | 3:16–28 | |
| Solomon’s prosperity | 1:14–17 | 4:20–34 |
| Preparations for the temple | 2:1–18 | 5:1–18 |
| Temple built | 3:1–5:1 | 6:1–38;7:13–51 |
| Solomon’s palace | 7:1–12 | |
| Ark brought to the temple | 5:2–12 | 8:1–9 |
| God’s glory fills the temple | 5:13–14 | 8:10–11 |
| Solomon blesses the people | 6:1–11 | 8:12–21 |
| Solomon consecrates the temple | 6:12–42 | 8:22–61 |
| Fire from the Lord consumes the sacrifices | 7:1–3 | |
| Solomon and the people offer sacrifices | 7:4–7 | 8:62–64 |
| Feast of Tabernacles | 7:8–10 | 8:65–66 |
| The covenant confirmed | 7:11–22 | 9:1–9 |
| Solomon’s territory increases | 8:1–6 | 9:10–19 |
| Solomon’s enemies defeated | 8:7–10 | 9:20–23 |
| Solomon’s religious practices | 8:11–16 | 9:24–25 |
| Solomon’s economic operations | 8:17–18 | 9:26–28 |
| Queen of Sheba visits | 9:1–12 | 10:1–13 |
| Solomon’s wealth | 9:13–28 | 10:14–29 |
| Solomon’s apostasy and adversaries | 11:1–40 | |
| Death of Solomon | 9:29–31 | 11:41–43 |
| Division of the kingdom | 10:1–11:23 | 12:1–33 |
| Man of God from Judah warns Jeroboam (Israel) | 13:1–34 | |
| Ahijah’s prophecy against Jeroboam | 14:1–18 | |
| Death of Jeroboam | 14:19–20 | |
| Shishak invades Judah | 12:1–12 | 14:25–28 |
| Reign of Rehoboam (Judah) | 12:13–16 | 14:21–24,29–31 |
| War between Judah and Israel | 13:1–22 | 15:1–8 |
| Evaluation of Asa (Judah) | 14:1–8 | 15:9–12 |
| Ethiopians defeated | 14:9–15 | |
| Azariah the prophet | 15:1–7 | |
| Asa’s reforms | 15:8–19 | 15:13–15 |
| Asa defeats Syria | 16:1–10 | 15:16–22 |
| Death of Asa | 16:11–14 | 15:23–24 |
| Reigns of Nadab, Baasha, Elah, Zimri, Omri (Israel) | 15:25–16:28 | |
| Ahab becomes king (Israel) | 16:29–34 | |
| Elijah | 17:1–19:18;21:17–29 | |
| Call of Elisha | 19:19–21 | |
| Ahab conquers Syria, acquires Naboth’s vineyard | 20:1–21:29 | |
| Evaluation of Jehoshaphat (Judah) | 17:1–9 | |
| Expansion of Judah | 17:10–19 | |
| Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahab; death of Ahab | 18:1–34 | 22:1–40 |
| Jehoshaphat’s reforms, crisis, and deliverance | 19:1–20:30 | |
| Reign of Jehoshaphat | 20:31–37 | 22:41–50 |
| Reign of Ahaziah (Israel) | 22:51–53 | |
| 2 Kings | ||
| Death of Ahaziah; Elijah’s prophecy | 1:1–18 | |
| Elijah and Elisha | 2:1–25 | |
| Evaluation of Jehoram (Israel) | 3:1–3 | |
| Moab rebels | 3:4–27 | |
| The widow’s oil | 4:1–7 | |
| The Shunammite woman | 4:8–37 | |
| Miracles for the prophets | 4:38–44 | |
| Naaman healed | 5:1–27 | |
| The axe head recovered | 6:1–7 | |
| Chariots of fire | 6:8–23 | |
| Siege of Samaria | 6:24–7:20 | |
| Shunammite’s land restored | 8:1–6 | |
| Hazael kills Ben-hadad | 8:7–15 | |
| Evaluation of Jehoram (Judah) | 21:1–7 | 8:16–19 |
| Edom and Libnah rebel | 21:8–11 | 8:20–22 |
| Warning of Elijah | 21:12–15 | |
| Invasion of Philistia and Arabia | 21:16–17 | |
| Death of Jehoram | 21:18–20 | 8:23–24 |
| Reign of Ahaziah (Judah) | 22:1–9 | 8:25–29; 9:15–16, 27–28; 10:12–14 |
| Reign of Jehu (Israel) | 22:7–9 | 9:1–10:36 |
| Reign of Athaliah (Judah) | 22:10–23:15 | 11:1–16 |
| Jehoiada’s reforms (Judah) | 23:16–21 | 11:17–20 |
| Evaluation of Joash (Judah) | 24:1–3 | 11:21–12:3 |
| Joash repairs the temple | 24:4–14 | 12:4–16 |
| Death of Jehoiada | 24:15–16 | |
| Jehoiada’s son killed | 24:17–22 | |
| Syria invades Judah | 24:23–24 | 12:17–18 |
| Death of Joash | 24:25–27 | 12:19–21 |
| Reign of Jehoahaz (Israel) | 13:1–9 | |
| Reign of Jehoash (Israel) | 13:10–13 | |
| Elisha’s final prophecy and death | 13:14–25 | |
| Reign of Amaziah (Judah) | 25:1–16 | 14:1–20 |
| Israel defeats Judah | 25:17–24 | 14:8–14 |
| Death of Amaziah | 25:25–28 | 14:17–20 |
| Evaluation of Uzziah (Judah) | 26:1–5 | 14:21–22; 15:1–5 |
| Reign of Jeroboam II (Israel) | 14:23–29 | |
| Victories of Uzziah | 26:6–15 | |
| Sinful offering of Uzziah | 26:16–21 | |
| Death of Uzziah | 26:22–23 | 15:6–7 |
| Reign of Zechariah (Israel) | 15:8–12 | |
| Reign of Shallum (Israel) | 15:13–16 | |
| Reign of Menahem (Israel) | 15:17–22 | |
| Reign of Pekahiah (Israel) | 15:23–26 | |
| Reign of Pekah (Israel) | 15:27–31 | |
| Reign of Jotham (Judah) | 27:1–9 | 15:32–38 |
| Evaluation of Ahaz (Judah) | 28:1–4 | 16:1–4 |
| Israel defeats Judah | 28:5–21 | 16:5–9 |
| Ahaz’s idolatry and death | 28:22–27 | 16:10–12 |
| Fall of Israel | 17:1–23 | |
| Resettlement of Israel | 17:24–41 | |
| Evaluation of Hezekiah (Judah) | 29:1–2 | 18:1–8 |
| Hezekiah cleanses the temple | 29:3–19 | |
| Hezekiah restores temple worship | 29:20–36 | |
| Hezekiah restores Passover | 30:1–27 | |
| Hezekiah destroys idols, organizes priests | 31:1–21 | |
| Fall of Israel (restated) | 18:9–12 | |
| Assyria invades Judah | 32:1–23 | 18:13–19:37 |
| Hezekiah’s illness and restoration | 32:24–26 | 20:1–11 |
| Hezekiah’s wealth and foolish pride | 32:27–31 | 20:12–19 |
| Death of Hezekiah | 32:32–33 | 20:20–21 |
| Reign of Manasseh (Judah) | 33:1–9 | 21:1–18 |
| Manasseh’s repentance | 33:10–20 | |
| Reign of Amon (Judah) | 33:21–25 | 21:19–26 |
| Evaluation of Josiah (Judah) | 34:1–2 | 22:1–2 |
| Josiah’s early reforms | 34:3–7 | |
| Josiah repairs the temple | 34:8–13 | 22:3–7 |
| Book of Law discovered; Josiah’s reforms | 34:14–33 | 22:8–23:20 |
| Passover celebrated | 35:1–19 | 23:21–27 |
| Death of Josiah | 35:20–27 | 23:28–30 |
| Reign of Jehoahaz (Judah) | 36:1–3 | 23:31–33 |
| Reign of Jehoiakim (Judah) | 36:4–8 | 23:34–24:7 |
| Reign of Jehoiachin (Judah); Babylonian captivity | 36:9–10 | 24:8–17 |
| Evaluation of Zedekiah (Judah) | 36:11–12 | 24:18–20 |
| Destruction of Jerusalem | 36:13–21 | 25:1–21 |
| Remnant flees to Egypt | 25:22–26 | |
| Jehoiachin released | 25:27–30 | |
| Proclamation by Cyrus | 36:22–23 |
Jehoshaphat
Like his father, Asa, King Jehoshaphat was faithful to the Lord and received God’s blessings. He strengthened his kingdom both spiritually and militarily, and appointed teachers to go throughout Judah and teach the people concerning the Book of the Law. Large armies served Jehoshaphat, and he built up fortresses and store cities in Judah. He had great riches and honor. Jehoshaphat is criticized, however, for his association with the ungodly northern kingdom, including a marriage alliance with King Ahab. Such alliances caused the king to “help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD” (19:2). Despite his shortcomings, Jehoshaphat is remembered primarily for his great faith and leadership and as one who did “what was right in the sight of the LORD” (20:32). (2 Chronicles 19:4)
Jehoshaphat
Like his father, Asa, King Jehoshaphat was faithful to the Lord and received God’s blessings. He strengthened his kingdom both spiritually and militarily, and appointed teachers to go throughout Judah and teach the people concerning the Book of the Law. Large armies served Jehoshaphat, and he built up fortresses and store cities in Judah. He had great riches and honor. Jehoshaphat is criticized, however, for his association with the ungodly northern kingdom, including a marriage alliance with King Ahab. Such alliances caused the king to “help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD” (19:2). Despite his shortcomings, Jehoshaphat is remembered primarily for his great faith and leadership and as one who did “what was right in the sight of the LORD” (20:32). (2 Chronicles 19:4)
2 Chron. 19:1–3 This is the Chronicler’s own addition to 1 Kings 22. Jehu the son of Hanani ministered in the days of Baasha, king of Israel (1 Kings 16:1–3). His criticism of Jehoshaphat for his alliance with the ungodly Ahab echoes his criticism of the wicked Baasha (1 Kings 16:7). Love here refers to the commitment to support a treaty. God’s wrath may be avoided or lessened by repentance (see 2 Chron. 12:7; 32:25–26).
2 Chron. 19:4 he went out again. A continuation of the religious teaching mission described in 17:7–9, this time involving the king himself. From Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim describes the limits of Judah from south to north.
Jehoshaphat
Like his father, Asa, King Jehoshaphat was faithful to the Lord and received God’s blessings. He strengthened his kingdom both spiritually and militarily, and appointed teachers to go throughout Judah and teach the people concerning the Book of the Law. Large armies served Jehoshaphat, and he built up fortresses and store cities in Judah. He had great riches and honor. Jehoshaphat is criticized, however, for his association with the ungodly northern kingdom, including a marriage alliance with King Ahab. Such alliances caused the king to “help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD” (19:2). Despite his shortcomings, Jehoshaphat is remembered primarily for his great faith and leadership and as one who did “what was right in the sight of the LORD” (20:32). (2 Chronicles 19:4)
2 Chron. 19:5–7 The instructions in Deut. 16:18–17:13 guide Jehoshaphat’s action in appointing judges in the fortified cities of Judah and his words to them. Israel’s judges must act out of a sense of sacred duty (you judge not for man but for the LORD) and must reflect Yahweh’s concern for justice and impartiality. Jehoshaphat’s own name means “Yahweh judges.”
2 Chron. 19:8–11 The Jerusalem court would have supplemented the local courts. It probably dealt with the more difficult disputed cases. The presiding justices Amariah the chief priest and Zebadiah . . . the governor are responsible for the interests of the temple and the crown, respectively. The judicial system has a vital role in ensuring that the nation’s life is righteous and just, so that the people do not incur guilt and wrath.
2 Chron. 20:1–2 After this. The invasion followed Jehoshaphat’s religious and judicial reforms (ch. 19), and so it was not a case of divine punishment (see 12:2). Instead it was an opportunity to exercise faith (compare note on 32:1–8). great multitude. Judah was apparently outnumbered by the coalition.
2 Chron. 20:3–4 The fast expressed the special intensity of the people’s prayer (see Judg. 20:26; Ezra 8:21–23).
2 Chron. 20:14–19 The people must go down against the enemy, but as prayerful observers, not as combatants. Verse 17 is based very closely on Ex. 14:13–14.
2 Chron. 20:20–23 The wilderness of Tekoa is about 12 miles (19 km) south of Jerusalem. Jehoshaphat’s call to faith is based on Isa. 7:9. Believe here means the active and obedient trust that God rewards (see Heb. 11:6), acting on the revealed word of his prophets, including Jahaziel. Ambush may mean either angelic agents (see 2 Chron. 32:21) or men (see Judg. 9:25), in which case suspicions among the coalition forces lead to panic and their own destruction (2 Chron. 20:23; see 1 Sam. 14:20).
2 Chron. 20:1–30 These verses describe a victory over Judah’s enemies in which God acts for his people. Faith in God and obedience to his prophets (v. 20) was the nation’s surest defense against their hostile neighbors (compare Ezra 4; Nehemiah 4).
2 Chron. 20:24–30 Beracah means “blessing.” The return to Jerusalem takes the form of a triumphal procession, which ends appropriately in the temple, where the people first sought God’s deliverance (v. 5).
2 Chron. 20:31–34 The high places, however, were not taken away. Some have claimed that this contradicts 17:6, which says that Jehoshaphat “took the high places . . . out of Judah.” Both statements can be true if 17:6 refers to Jehoshaphat’s official actions and 20:33 indicates that the people were not committed to Jehoshaphat’s reforms (see 1 Kings 22:43).
Fact: Tarshish
Tarshish (20:36) was a city at the western end of the Mediterranean Sea, possibly in Spain. It was famous for building ships to carry gold and silver to the Near East. Jonah tried to flee to Tarshish to avoid his responsibilities as a prophet.
2 Chron. 20:35–37 Jehoshaphat repeats his error of making an alliance (this time, a business agreement) with the Israelite king, Ahab’s son Ahaziah.
Jehoshaphat
Like his father, Asa, King Jehoshaphat was faithful to the Lord and received God’s blessings. He strengthened his kingdom both spiritually and militarily, and appointed teachers to go throughout Judah and teach the people concerning the Book of the Law. Large armies served Jehoshaphat, and he built up fortresses and store cities in Judah. He had great riches and honor. Jehoshaphat is criticized, however, for his association with the ungodly northern kingdom, including a marriage alliance with King Ahab. Such alliances caused the king to “help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD” (19:2). Despite his shortcomings, Jehoshaphat is remembered primarily for his great faith and leadership and as one who did “what was right in the sight of the LORD” (20:32). (2 Chronicles 19:4)
17:1–21:1 Jehoshaphat. The Chronicler’s account of Jehoshaphat’s reign is much longer than the one in Kings, where Jehoshaphat plays a subordinate role to the northern kings Ahab and Jehoram. The Chronicler focuses on Jehoshaphat as one who strengthens his kingdom spiritually and militarily (2 Chron. 17:1–19), organizes its system of courts (19:1–11), and demonstrates great faith and leadership in the face of a terrible military threat (20:1–29). At the same time, Jehoshaphat is criticized for his alliances with the evil northern kings (19:1–3; 20:37). Like his predecessors, Jehoshaphat is a mixture of good and bad qualities, but he is seen as mostly good.
2 Chron. 21:1 Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers. See notes on 1 Kings 2:10 and 11:43; see 1 Kings 22:50.
2 Chron. 21:2–6 Jehoram reigned c. 849–842 B.C., including a co-regency with his father from 853. His marriage to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab, influenced him in the evil ways of that kingdom. He killed all of his brothers and other possible rivals (a policy that Athaliah would later repeat; see 22:10). Alliance with the ungodly would bring the dynasty to the brink of destruction.
2 Chron. 21:6 he walked in the way of the kings of Israel. See note on 2 Kings 8:18.
2 Chron. 21:7 because of the covenant that he had made with David. See 1 Chron. 17:14. a lamp to him and to his sons forever. Symbolic language for persistence and permanence in the darkest times, perhaps suggested by the constantly burning temple lamps (2 Chron. 13:11).
2 Chron. 21:8–10 Edom and Libnah revolted against Jehoram, and the Chronicler says it was because Jehoram had forsaken the LORD, the God of his fathers. Libnah was a Judean city on the border with Philistia.
2 Chron. 21:2–20 The Chronicler expands the account of Jehoram’s reign in 2 Kings 8:16–24. Here, and in his accounts of Ahaziah (2 Chron. 22:1–9) and Athaliah (22:10–23:21), he highlights the disastrous influence of Ahab’s house on the Davidic dynasty and Judah.
2 Chron. 21:11–20 In contrast to his father Jehoshaphat, who removed the high places (17:6), Jehoram actually promotes their construction. He was probably influenced in this by his marriage to Athaliah, daughter of the northern king Ahab. The prophets often described idolatry as whoredom (see Ezek. 16:16; Hos. 4:17–18). letter . . . from Elijah the prophet. As always in Chronicles, the rebellious king is rebuked by a prophet. The last years of Elijah’s ministry overlapped with the beginning of Jehoram’s reign (2 Kings 1:17). On disease as divine punishment, see 2 Chron. 16:12; 26:19–21; and note on John 9:2.
2 Chron. 22:1–9 The Chronicler’s account of Ahaziah’s brief reign (842–841 B.C.) is adapted from 2 Kings 8:24–29; 9:21, 28; 10:13–14. The Chronicler emphasizes the damaging influence of the house of Ahab on the young and ineffectual king; they were his counselors, to his undoing (2 Chron. 22:4b).
2 Chron. 22:5–9 The coup led by Jehu is described in detail in 2 Kings 9:1–28. The Chronicler assumes his readers are familiar with the story. He focuses instead on Ahaziah’s fate, which was ordained by God (compare 2 Chron. 10:15; 24:20).
Fact: Athaliah
Athaliah was the only woman to rule over Judah. She was the granddaughter of Omri and the daughter of Ahab. After seizing the throne and murdering the rest of the royal family, she reigned for six years before being overthrown. The young child Joash was hidden during her reign and became king after her death.
21:2–22:12 Jehoram and Ahaziah. God is faithful to his promise to preserve David’s lineage, even when specific Davidic kings behave like the wicked King Ahab.
2 Chron. 22:10–12 With Ahaziah dead, his mother, Athaliah, daughter of Ahab, sets out to kill all of her own grandchildren, that is, all the potential successors to the throne (compare the similar massacre led by her husband, Jehoram; 21:4). However, Jehoshabeath, sister of Ahaziah, manages to save the infant Joash, who will eventually become king. Jehoshabeath is the wife of Jehoiada the high priest, which helps explain how Joash could remain hidden in the temple buildings throughout Athaliah’s rule.
2 Chron. 23:1b–2 The Chronicler emphasizes the role of the Levites (see also vv. 5–8) and the heads of fathers’ houses, as well as military figures, in the uprising.
2 Chron. 23:3 The assembly was a representative body of the nation’s leaders. Wise kings sought its advice and support (see 1 Chron. 13:2; 29:1; 2 Chron. 30:2). The covenant with the king probably included the arrangement for Jehoiada to supervise Joash until he reached adulthood (see 24:4). Let him reign, as the LORD spoke. The coup was in keeping with God’s promise to preserve David’s line (see 1 Chron. 17:14; 2 Chron. 6:10).
2 Chron. 23:4 This is the thing that you shall do. See note on 2 Kings 11:5–8.
2 Chron. 23:5–6 All the people participated in the coup, but they remained in the courts and did not enter the temple.
2 Chron. 23:8–9 The coup was timed to take place during the changing of the guards on the Sabbath, to bring the maximum number of armed men into the temple precincts without arousing suspicion. the spears and . . . shields. See note on 2 Kings 11:10.
Fact: Why did the guards carry King David’s spears?
Why did the guards carry King David’s spears? Even though King David’s spears (23:9) were around 150 years old, they served an important purpose. Having the guards hold the spears at the coronation of Joash, who was only seven years old, symbolized his right to David’s throne.
2 Chron. 23:11 the testimony. See note on 2 Kings 11:12.
2 Chron. 23:13–15 The pillar is probably either Boaz or Jachin, the pillars at the temple entrance (3:17; see note on 2 Kings 11:14).
2 Chron. 23:1–21 Mainly from 2 Kings 11:4–20. Numerous differences reflect the Chronicler’s particular concerns.
Who are some of the other kings in these chapters?
Listen NowDive Deeper | 2 Chronicles 19-23
Near the beginning of COVID, I read this passage, and it really resonated with me, especially 2 Chronicles 20:12. I heard God whispering to me, "You do not know what to do, but keep your eyes on Me." I immediately stuck this verse on my refrigerator and recited it to myself constantly. It grounded me and pointed my eyes up rather than out at the chaos.
It's amazing how one verse changed my entire perspective amid worldwide confusion and fear. The Lord used this verse to teach me to rely on Him for my security and comfort. As a result, He transformed a negative experience into one with many sweet moments that I'm still grateful for.
Years later, the verse has become more of a lifestyle than a choice. The craziness of 2020 has passed, but our fallen world still attempts to distract, destroy, and overwhelm us. However, when our eyes are on Him, we are reminded that our salvation is secure and He is in control, which leads to greater joy and peace.
Can you imagine being Jehoshaphat and knowing the nation you lead is about to be slaughtered? Stressful is an understatement. Yet rather than frivolously preparing for war, Jehoshaphat gathers everyone and boldly prays. He also appoints people to sing praises, "Give thanks to the LORD, for his steadfast love endures forever." (2 Chronicles 20:21) Jehoshaphat is not distracted by the impending doom but focuses fully on God! "For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you." (2 Chronicles 20:12)
Jehoshaphat and his people do not waver. They humbly admit their need for the Lord and keep their focus on Him. By God's will they are spared, because the battle is not theirs but God's (2 Chronicles 20:15).
No matter what life throws your way, never forget that our ultimate battle was won when Jesus was victorious on the cross. Let's stand firm in the faith and keep our eyes on the One worthy of our attention.
This month's memory verse
"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
– Job 1:21b
Discussion Questions
1. What big or small things are overwhelming you today? Pray about them. What would it look like to hand those fears and anxieties to God?
2. What Bible verse would be beneficial for you to post on your refrigerator and meditate on?
3. What are some ways you can keep your eyes on God in a distracting world?
4. Reflect upon a hard time—what are three things from that time that you can praise God in and be thankful for?
5. Jam out to the song "Battle Belongs" by Phil Wickham, which was written about this passage. Do you have a favorite lyric?