2 Chronicles 14:14

and attacked all the cities around Gerar, because the terror of the LORD had fallen upon them. They plundered all the cities, since there was much plunder there.

Study Bible

and attacked all the cities around Gerar
This phrase refers to the military campaign led by King Asa of Judah after his victory over the Cushites. Gerar was a Philistine city located in the Negev region, southwest of Judah. Historically, Gerar was a significant city during the time of the patriarchs, as seen in Genesis 20 and 26, where Abraham and Isaac had interactions with the Philistine king Abimelech. The attack on the cities around Gerar signifies a strategic move to secure Judah's borders and eliminate potential threats. This action reflects the common practice of ancient Near Eastern kings to expand their influence and secure their territories after a military victory.

because the terror of the LORD had fallen upon them
The "terror of the LORD" indicates a divine intervention that instilled fear in the hearts of the inhabitants of the surrounding cities. This concept is seen throughout the Old Testament, where God causes fear to fall upon Israel's enemies, leading to their defeat (e.g., Exodus 23:27, Joshua 2:9). It underscores the belief that God actively participates in the affairs of His people, granting them victory over their adversaries. This divine terror serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and power, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled through His chosen leaders.

They plundered all the cities
Plundering was a common practice in ancient warfare, where the victors would seize goods, livestock, and other valuables from the defeated. This act not only enriched the victors but also served as a means of weakening the enemy. In the context of Asa's campaign, the plundering of the cities around Gerar would have provided Judah with resources and wealth, strengthening the kingdom economically and militarily. This action also reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to bless and protect His people when they are obedient to His commands.

since there was much plunder there
The abundance of plunder indicates the prosperity of the cities around Gerar before their defeat. This detail highlights the extent of the victory achieved by Asa and his forces. The wealth acquired from these cities would have been significant, contributing to the prosperity and stability of Judah during Asa's reign. This phrase also serves as a testament to God's provision for His people, rewarding their faithfulness and reliance on Him for victory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
The King of Judah who led the nation in a period of religious reform and military success. His reliance on God brought peace and victory.

2. Gerar
A city in the region of the Philistines, which was attacked by Asa's forces. It represents the enemies of Judah during Asa's reign.

3. The Fear of the LORD
A divine influence that caused terror among the enemies of Judah, leading to their defeat and the subsequent plundering by Asa's forces.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, led by King Asa during this time. Judah experienced a period of peace and prosperity under Asa's leadership.

5. The Plunder
The wealth and goods taken from the cities around Gerar, symbolizing God's provision and blessing upon Judah for their faithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Divine Fear
The fear of the LORD can be a powerful force that protects and delivers His people from their enemies. It is not merely an emotion but a divine influence that can change circumstances.

Faithfulness Leads to Victory
Asa's reliance on God and his commitment to religious reform brought about military success. Our faithfulness to God can lead to victories in our own lives.

God's Provision in Times of Need
The plundering of the cities around Gerar demonstrates God's provision for His people. Trusting in God can lead to unexpected blessings and resources.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
Asa's leadership was crucial in guiding Judah back to faithfulness. Spiritual leaders today have a significant role in directing others towards God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of the LORD manifest in your life, and how can it influence your daily decisions?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate faithfulness to God in your current circumstances, and what victories might you expect as a result?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in an unexpected way. How did it strengthen your faith?

4. What qualities of Asa's leadership can you apply to your own role as a leader in your family, church, or community?

5. How can you cultivate a deeper understanding of the fear of the LORD, and how might this impact your relationship with God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 7:13
This verse describes how the Philistines were subdued during Samuel's leadership, similar to how the fear of the LORD subdued the enemies of Judah in Asa's time.

Proverbs 9:10
This verse highlights the importance of the fear of the LORD as the beginning of wisdom, which is evident in the divine intervention seen in Asa's victory.

2 Chronicles 20:29
Another instance where the fear of the LORD fell upon the enemies of Judah, leading to their defeat, showing a pattern of divine protection for those who trust in God.