2 Chronicles 32:28

He also made storehouses for the harvest of grain and new wine and oil, stalls for all kinds of livestock, and pens for the flocks.

Study Bible

He also made storehouses for the harvest of grain and new wine and oil
This phrase highlights the importance of preparation and stewardship in ancient Israel. Storehouses were essential for preserving the harvest, ensuring food security during times of scarcity. Grain, new wine, and oil were staples in the diet and economy of Israel, symbolizing sustenance, joy, and anointing, respectively. The construction of storehouses reflects a period of prosperity and foresight under King Hezekiah's reign. Biblically, this mirrors Joseph's actions in Egypt (Genesis 41:48-49), where he stored grain during years of plenty to prepare for famine. Spiritually, it can be seen as a call to store up spiritual treasures (Matthew 6:19-21).

stalls for all kinds of livestock
Livestock was a sign of wealth and blessing in the ancient Near East. The mention of stalls indicates organized and systematic care for animals, which were vital for agriculture, transportation, and religious sacrifices. This reflects Hezekiah's commitment to maintaining and expanding the kingdom's resources. The care for livestock is reminiscent of the patriarchs, such as Abraham and Job, who were also blessed with abundant flocks and herds (Genesis 13:2, Job 1:3). It underscores the biblical principle of responsible stewardship over God's creation (Proverbs 27:23).

and pens for the flocks
Flocks, particularly sheep and goats, were central to the agrarian lifestyle of ancient Israel. Pens provided protection from predators and harsh weather, ensuring the well-being of the animals. This phrase suggests a well-organized and prosperous kingdom under Hezekiah's leadership. The imagery of shepherding is prevalent throughout Scripture, often used to describe God's care for His people (Psalm 23, John 10:11). It also foreshadows Christ as the Good Shepherd, who tends to His flock with diligence and love. The preparation of pens signifies the importance of safeguarding and nurturing what has been entrusted to one's care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah during whose reign this verse is set. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Hezekiah reigned. It was a time of both spiritual revival and political challenges.

3. Storehouses
These were built by Hezekiah to store the abundance of resources, indicating a time of prosperity and wise management.

4. Grain, Wine, and Oil
These were essential commodities in ancient Israel, representing sustenance, celebration, and anointing.

5. Cattle and Flocks
Livestock was a sign of wealth and provision, crucial for the economy and daily life in Judah.

Teaching Points

Wise Stewardship
Hezekiah's actions demonstrate the importance of managing resources wisely. As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to us, whether it be time, talents, or treasures.

Preparation and Planning
The building of storehouses reflects the value of planning and preparing for the future. This principle can be applied to both physical and spiritual aspects of life.

Trust in God's Provision
While Hezekiah prepared for the future, his ultimate trust was in God's provision. We should also balance our efforts with faith in God's care and provision.

Community and Responsibility
The resources stored were not just for Hezekiah but for the community. This teaches us about the responsibility to care for others and share our blessings.

Spiritual Abundance
Just as Hezekiah stored physical resources, we should seek to store spiritual treasures, growing in faith, knowledge, and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's preparation of storehouses reflect the principle of wise stewardship, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we balance planning for the future with trusting in God's provision, as seen in Hezekiah's example?

3. How does the concept of storing resources for the community challenge us to think about our responsibility to others?

4. What are some "spiritual storehouses" we can build in our lives, and how do they align with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21?

5. How can the account of Hezekiah inspire us to prepare for both physical and spiritual challenges in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph's management of Egypt's resources during the years of plenty and famine parallels Hezekiah's preparation and wise stewardship.

Proverbs 21:20
This verse speaks to the wisdom of storing up resources, aligning with Hezekiah's actions in preparing storehouses.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus' teaching on storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth provides a spiritual perspective on the concept of storing resources.