How does Rehoboam's reliance on "shields and spears" reflect trust in God's provision? Setting the Scene - After the kingdom divided, Rehoboam ruled only Judah and Benjamin. - Surrounded by political hostility, he “built up cities for defense in Judah” (2 Chronicles 11:5). The Verse in Focus “He put shields and spears in every city and strengthened them greatly. So Judah and Benjamin belonged to him.” Recognizing Shields and Spears as Gifts - Every material resource ultimately comes from the Lord (1 Chronicles 29:14). - Rehoboam’s stockpiling weapons acknowledged God as the true Source who supplied what Judah needed for protection. - The fact that Scripture records these preparations without censure indicates divine approval of using physical means God provides (cf. Nehemiah 4:9, 13). Trust Expressed Through Prepared Stewardship Rehoboam’s actions show that trusting God and taking practical steps are not opposites but partners: • Faith accepts God’s provision. • Stewardship organizes that provision. • Obedience implements it when danger arises. This mirrors Proverbs 21:31 — “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory comes from the LORD”. Preparation is human; success remains divine. Contrast: Human Might vs Divine Strength - When Rehoboam later drifted into pride, God allowed Shishak to seize the golden shields (2 Chronicles 12:1–9). The loss exposed the insufficiency of mere metal apart from humble dependence. - Even then, bronze replacements testify that God did not abandon Judah; He still supplied adequate means (2 Chronicles 12:10–12). Lessons for Today • Regard every “shield and spear” — income, skills, relationships — as God-given tools, not self-made trophies. • Prepare responsibly yet rest in the Lord’s ultimate protection (Psalm 127:1). • Evaluate whether confidence lies in the provision or the Provider; only the latter secures victory (Psalm 20:7). |
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