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

They attacked all the cities around Gerar
The phrase "They attacked" indicates a proactive and aggressive military action taken by Asa's forces. The Hebrew root for "attacked" is "נכה" (nakah), which often implies a decisive strike or blow. Historically, this reflects the period of Asa's reign when he was consolidating power and securing the borders of Judah. "All the cities around Gerar" suggests a comprehensive campaign, not just a skirmish. Gerar was a Philistine city, and its mention here indicates the geographical and political tensions of the time. The Philistines were often adversaries of Israel, and this campaign would have been seen as a necessary action to ensure the safety and stability of the kingdom.

for the terror of the LORD had fallen upon them
The "terror of the LORD" is a significant phrase, indicating divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "terror" is "פחד" (pachad), which conveys a deep, paralyzing fear. This is not merely human fear but a supernatural dread that God instills in the enemies of His people. This concept is seen throughout the Old Testament, where God fights for Israel, often causing their enemies to flee in fear. It underscores the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, providing them with victory not just through military might but through His divine power and presence.

They plundered all the cities
"Plundered" comes from the Hebrew "בזז" (bazaz), meaning to seize or take spoils. This was a common practice in ancient warfare, where the victors would take goods, livestock, and other valuables from the defeated. The act of plundering here is not just about material gain but also a demonstration of God's provision and blessing upon His people. It serves as a tangible sign of victory and God's favor, reinforcing the idea that obedience to God leads to prosperity and success.

for there was much plunder there
The repetition of the word "plunder" emphasizes the abundance of resources that were acquired. The phrase "much plunder" suggests that the cities around Gerar were wealthy and well-stocked, making the victory even more significant. This abundance can be seen as a reward for Asa's faithfulness and reliance on God. In a broader scriptural context, it reflects the biblical principle that God provides for His people, often in unexpected and abundant ways, when they trust in Him and follow His commands.

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.