What does 2 Chronicles 20:18 mean?
What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 20:18?

Then Jehoshaphat bowed facedown

- The king’s posture signals immediate humility before God. Like Moses who “quickly bowed down to the ground and worshiped” (Exodus 34:8), Jehoshaphat recognizes God’s supreme authority.

- Bowing places the leader beneath the Lord’s will, modeling for the nation a heart that submits (Psalm 95:6).

- Just prior, God’s prophetic word promised victory without battle (2 Chronicles 20:15–17). Jehoshaphat’s physical response shows trust that the promise is already settled.


and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down before the LORD

- Corporate obedience follows the example of righteous leadership (Proverbs 14:34).

- The entire community responds together, echoing earlier gatherings where Israel “stood and confessed their sins and worshiped the LORD” (Nehemiah 9:3).

- Unity in worship prepares them for unity in action; soon they will march singing (2 Chronicles 20:21–22).


to worship Him

- Worship here is more than song; it is surrender, praise, and confidence wrapped into one act (Psalm 29:2).

- Their worship precedes the miracle, illustrating faith that “the LORD will fight for you” (Exodus 14:14).

- God’s presence, not the impending crisis, becomes the focus—anticipating Jesus’ teaching that “true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth” (John 4:23).


summary

2 Chronicles 20:18 pictures a chain reaction of faith: the king bows, the people follow, and all worship. Humility, unity, and trust converge as God’s Word transforms fear into adoration. The verse invites believers today to respond to divine promises with the same wholehearted, reverent worship that opens the door for God’s victory.

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