2 Chronicles 12:7

When the LORD saw that they had humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, "They have humbled themselves; I will not destroy them, but will soon grant them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on Jerusalem through Shishak.

Study Bible

When the LORD saw
This phrase emphasizes the omniscience of God, who is fully aware of the actions and intentions of His people. The Hebrew root for "saw" is "רָאָה" (ra'ah), which implies not just seeing but perceiving and understanding. This indicates that God is not distant or indifferent but actively engaged in the lives of His people, observing their repentance and readiness to change.

that they had humbled themselves
The act of humbling oneself is a recurring theme in Scripture, often associated with repentance and a turning back to God. The Hebrew word "כָּנַע" (kanah) means to be subdued or brought low. This humility is not merely an outward act but a genuine inward transformation, acknowledging God's sovereignty and one's own need for His mercy.

the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah
Shemaiah was a prophet, and this phrase underscores the role of prophets as God's messengers. The "word of the LORD" (דְּבַר־יְהוָה, devar-YHWH) is a powerful concept, signifying divine communication that is authoritative and transformative. It is through such words that God reveals His will and intentions to His people.

saying, 'They have humbled themselves
Repetition of their humility highlights its importance. It is a reminder that God values a contrite heart and is willing to respond to genuine repentance. This phrase serves as a divine acknowledgment of their change in attitude, which is crucial for their deliverance.

I will not destroy them
This is a declaration of God's mercy. Despite their previous disobedience, God chooses to withhold His judgment. The Hebrew root "שָׁחַת" (shachat) for "destroy" implies complete ruin or corruption. God's decision to refrain from destruction demonstrates His grace and willingness to forgive.

but I will grant them some deliverance
Deliverance, or "פְּלֵיטָה" (pelitah), signifies rescue or escape from danger. The use of "some" indicates that while full restoration may not be immediate, God is providing a measure of relief. This partial deliverance serves as both a consequence of their actions and a sign of hope for future restoration.

My wrath will not be poured out
The imagery of wrath being "poured out" (שָׁפַךְ, shaphak) suggests a controlled release of divine anger. God's wrath is just and righteous, yet He chooses to withhold it in response to their repentance. This highlights His patience and desire for reconciliation rather than punishment.

upon Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, holds significant spiritual and historical importance as the center of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence. The sparing of Jerusalem signifies God's continued commitment to His covenant with David and His people, despite their failings.

by the hand of Shishak
Shishak, the king of Egypt, represents a foreign threat used by God as an instrument of judgment. The phrase "by the hand of" (בְּיַד, beyad) indicates agency or means. God's intervention prevents Shishak from executing His wrath, demonstrating His control over nations and history. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to protect His people from external threats when they turn back to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The sovereign God of Israel, who responds to the humility of His people.

2. Shemaiah
A prophet of God who delivers the LORD's message to Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah.

3. Rehoboam
The king of Judah, son of Solomon, who initially led the nation into sin but later humbled himself.

4. Shishak
The king of Egypt who invaded Judah as a consequence of their unfaithfulness.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, spared from destruction due to the people's repentance.

Teaching Points

The Power of Humility
Humility before God can change the course of events. When we humble ourselves, we open the door for God's mercy and intervention in our lives.

God's Responsive Nature
God is attentive to the state of our hearts. He responds to genuine repentance and humility with grace and deliverance.

Consequences of Sin and Repentance
While sin has consequences, repentance can mitigate these effects. God may allow some consequences to remain as a reminder, but He also provides a path to restoration.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Shemaiah play a crucial role in communicating God's will and guidance. We should be attentive to God's messages through His Word and His messengers.

Divine Mercy Over Judgment
God's preference is to show mercy rather than execute judgment. His desire is for His people to turn back to Him and receive His grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the humility of Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah serve as a model for us in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our repentance is genuine and not just a response to avoid consequences?

3. How can we discern and respond to God's messages in our lives today, similar to how Shemaiah delivered God's word to Judah?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate a humble heart before God and others?

5. How does understanding God's character as merciful and gracious influence our approach to repentance and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 4:6
This verse emphasizes that God gives grace to the humble, aligning with the theme of humility in 2 Chronicles 12:7.

1 Kings 14:25-26
Provides a parallel account of Shishak's invasion, offering additional context to the events in 2 Chronicles 12.

2 Chronicles 7:14
Highlights the promise of healing and forgiveness when God's people humble themselves and pray.

Exodus 34:6-7
Describes God's character as merciful and gracious, slow to anger, which is evident in His response to Judah's repentance.

Psalm 51:17
Speaks of a broken and contrite heart, which God does not despise, reflecting the humility shown by Rehoboam and his leaders.