What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 13:21? But Abijah grew strong • The verse follows a decisive victory over Jeroboam in which “the children of Judah prevailed because they relied on the LORD” (2 Chron 13:18). Abijah’s strength is the outworking of that reliance. • God confirms His covenant faithfulness; as with David—“David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of Hosts was with him” (2 Samuel 5:10)—so He now establishes David’s descendant. • The chronicler notes the practical results: captured cities (2 Chron 13:19) and the permanent weakening of Israel’s rival king (2 Chron 13:20). • Spiritual principle: when leaders trust the Lord, He provides enduring strength and stability (Proverbs 3:5-6; 2 Chron 16:9). married fourteen wives • The statement is descriptive, not prescriptive. Scripture records polygamy among kings (Rehoboam had eighteen wives, 2 Chron 11:21; Solomon multiplied wives, 1 Kings 11:3) while also warning, “He must not take many wives for himself” (Deuteronomy 17:17). • Political motives—alliances, succession security—often drove such marriages, yet they fell short of God’s ideal: “a man…be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). • The chronicler’s inclusion reminds readers that even victorious kings have shortcomings; strength gained from God does not excuse disobedience. and became the father of twenty-two sons and sixteen daughters • A large royal family signified divine blessing and dynastic stability. “Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD” (Psalm 127:3-5). • Many sons ensured an heir—Asa, one of these sons, would carry the Davidic line (2 Chron 14:1) and preserve God’s promise, “Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me” (2 Samuel 7:16). • The daughters likely forged additional alliances through marriage, further consolidating Judah’s position. • The detail underscores Genesis 1:28’s command to “be fruitful and multiply,” showing God’s ongoing provision for His covenant people. summary 2 Chronicles 13:21 records three tangible evidences of God’s favor on Abijah—military and political strength, extensive marriage alliances, and a flourishing family. Each element demonstrates that the Lord keeps His promises to the house of David while also exposing the king’s human imperfections. Trust in God brought victory and growth; deviation from His standards, though noted, does not nullify His covenant faithfulness. |
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