2 Chronicles 32:7

"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged before the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater One with us than with him.

Study Bible

Be strong and courageous!
This exhortation echoes the words given to Joshua (Joshua 1:6-9) as he prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land. It is a call to trust in God's power and presence, emphasizing reliance on divine strength rather than human might. The phrase is a recurring biblical theme, encouraging believers to face challenges with faith and confidence in God's promises.

Do not be afraid or discouraged
Fear and discouragement are common human responses to overwhelming circumstances. This command reassures the people of Judah that their situation is under divine control. Similar encouragements are found throughout Scripture, such as in Isaiah 41:10, where God promises His presence and support.

before the king of Assyria and the vast army with him
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant military power during this period, known for its brutal conquests and advanced warfare tactics. King Sennacherib's campaign against Judah was part of his broader strategy to expand Assyrian control. The historical context highlights the real and present danger faced by Hezekiah and his people, making the call to faith even more significant.

for there is a greater One with us than with him
This statement affirms the presence and superiority of God over any earthly power. It parallels the assurance given by Elisha in 2 Kings 6:16, where he tells his servant not to fear the Aramean army because "those who are with us are more than those who are with them." This reflects the biblical truth that God's power surpasses all human strength, a theme also seen in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" It foreshadows the ultimate victory of Christ over all spiritual adversaries.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah who reigned during the time of the Assyrian threat. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. King of Assyria
Refers to Sennacherib, the Assyrian king who invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem. He is a representation of a formidable earthly power.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under threat from the Assyrian army. It is a central place of worship and the location of the Temple.

4. The Assyrian Army
A vast and powerful military force that posed a significant threat to Judah. Their presence was intimidating and caused fear among the people.

5. The Greater One
Refers to God, who is with Judah and is greater than any earthly power, including the Assyrian army.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Hezekiah's confidence was rooted in his trust in God's sovereignty. In times of overwhelming challenges, believers are encouraged to rely on God's supreme power and presence.

Courage in the Face of Adversity
The call to be strong and courageous is a timeless exhortation for believers to face their fears with faith, knowing that God is greater than any opposition.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Just as Judah faced a physical army, Christians today face spiritual battles. Recognizing that God is with us provides strength and courage to stand firm.

The Importance of Leadership
Hezekiah's leadership in encouraging his people highlights the role of godly leaders in guiding others to trust in God during crises.

God's Presence as Our Assurance
The assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme in Scripture, providing comfort and strength to believers in every circumstance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing challenges?

2. In what ways does the assurance of God's presence in 2 Chronicles 32:7 compare to the promises found in Joshua 1:9 and Romans 8:31?

3. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate courage and strength in our daily walk with God?

4. How can we, like Hezekiah, encourage others to trust in God's greater power during times of fear and uncertainty?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "vast army" in your life. How did the knowledge of God's presence impact your response, and what can you learn from that experience for future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:9
This verse echoes the command to be strong and courageous, as God is with His people wherever they go. It reinforces the theme of divine presence and support.

Romans 8:31
This New Testament verse reflects the assurance that if God is for us, no one can be against us, paralleling the confidence Hezekiah had in God's greater power.

Psalm 46:1-3
These verses speak of God as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble, aligning with the assurance given to Hezekiah and the people of Judah.