2 Chronicles 20:30

Then Jehoshaphat's kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.

Study Bible

Then Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace
Jehoshaphat was the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, and his reign is noted for religious reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. The peace mentioned here follows a significant military victory over a coalition of enemies, including the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites, which was achieved through divine intervention rather than military might. This peace is a fulfillment of God's promise to protect and bless those who are faithful to Him. The peace in Jehoshaphat's kingdom can be seen as a type of the ultimate peace that Christ brings to believers, as He is referred to as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6.

for his God had given him rest
The phrase "his God" emphasizes the personal relationship between Jehoshaphat and Yahweh, highlighting the covenantal faithfulness of God to those who seek Him. The rest given by God is reminiscent of the rest promised to the Israelites in the Promised Land, as seen in Joshua 21:44. This rest is not merely the absence of war but a deeper, spiritual rest that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty and provision. It foreshadows the spiritual rest offered through Jesus Christ, as mentioned in Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him.

on every side
The phrase "on every side" indicates comprehensive peace and security, suggesting that all potential threats were neutralized by divine intervention. This mirrors the peace and security promised to Israel when they are obedient to God's commands, as seen in Leviticus 26:6. It also points to the eschatological peace that will be established in the new heavens and new earth, where there will be no more conflict or fear, as described in Revelation 21:4. This complete peace is a foretaste of the ultimate reconciliation and harmony that will be realized in God's eternal kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. He is a central figure in this passage, experiencing God's deliverance and peace.

2. Kingdom of Judah
The southern kingdom of the divided Israelite monarchy, over which Jehoshaphat reigned. It was a place of both spiritual struggle and renewal during his reign.

3. Peace and Rest
The state of tranquility and security that God granted to Jehoshaphat and his kingdom, signifying divine favor and protection.

4. God's Deliverance
The context of this verse follows a miraculous victory over a coalition of enemies, where God intervened on behalf of Judah without them having to fight.

5. Divine Intervention
The event where God caused confusion among the enemy armies, leading to their self-destruction, which is a testament to God's power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Jehoshaphat's peace was a result of his reliance on God. Believers today are called to trust in God's control over their circumstances.

The Power of Prayer and Worship
Before the victory, Jehoshaphat led the people in prayer and worship. This teaches the importance of seeking God first in times of trouble.

God's Peace as a Gift
The peace given to Jehoshaphat was a divine gift. Christians are reminded that true peace comes from God, not from worldly circumstances.

Rest in God's Promises
Just as God fulfilled His promise to protect Judah, believers can rest in the assurance of God's promises in their lives.

The Importance of Obedience
Jehoshaphat's reforms and obedience to God set the stage for divine intervention. Obedience to God's word is crucial for experiencing His blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's experience of peace and rest challenge your understanding of God's sovereignty in your life?

2. In what ways can you incorporate prayer and worship into your daily routine to seek God's guidance and peace?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's peace in a difficult situation. How did it change your perspective?

4. How can the account of Jehoshaphat encourage you to trust in God's promises, even when facing overwhelming challenges?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your life aligns with God's will, as Jehoshaphat did, to experience His peace and rest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 46:10
This verse encourages believers to be still and recognize God's sovereignty, similar to how Jehoshaphat experienced God's peace and rest.

Philippians 4:7
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, is a New Testament parallel to the peace given to Jehoshaphat's kingdom.

Isaiah 26:3
This verse speaks of perfect peace for those who trust in God, reflecting the peace experienced by Jehoshaphat.

Exodus 14:14
The Lord fighting for His people while they remain still is a theme seen in both the Exodus and Jehoshaphat's victory.

Hebrews 4:9-10
The concept of entering God's rest is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are invited to rest in Christ.