What is the meaning of 2 Chronicles 25:9? Amaziah asked the man of God King Amaziah of Judah had marshaled his army and, wanting extra strength, hired 100,000 mercenaries from the northern kingdom of Israel (2 Chronicles 25:6). When a prophet—called simply “the man of God” (v. 7)—warned him that the LORD was not with Israel’s idolatrous soldiers, Amaziah paused to seek clarification. • Amaziah’s willingness to consult the prophet shows a spark of humility, even though his overall reign was “not wholeheartedly” devoted to God (2 Chronicles 25:2). • Scripture consistently honors those who inquire of God before acting (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 32:8). • By addressing a recognized spokesman of the LORD, Amaziah acknowledged that divine counsel outranks political or military strategy (Psalm 33:16-17). “What should I do about the hundred talents I have given to the troops of Israel?” The king’s first concern is economic: he already paid about 7,500 pounds of silver—an enormous sum—to Israel’s soldiers. • Material loss often feels more pressing than moral compromise; Amaziah voices the same fear that keeps many from obedience today (Matthew 19:22; 1 Timothy 6:10). • The question exposes a heart dilemma: trust God or cling to sunk costs? (Luke 16:13). • The prophet had not demanded that Amaziah surrender his throne or army—only that he dismiss the ungodly alliance (2 Chronicles 25:7). Yet the financial stake loomed larger in Amaziah’s mind than spiritual purity. “The LORD is able to give you much more than this.” The prophet’s answer shifts Amaziah’s focus from loss to Lord. • God owns all resources (Psalm 24:1) and delights to bless obedience (1 Samuel 2:30; Proverbs 3:9-10). • “Able” underscores both power and willingness (Jeremiah 32:27; Ephesians 3:20). He is never limited to human math. • Historical proofs: – Israel at the Red Sea: obedience opened a path and ruined Egypt’s wealth (Exodus 14:13-14, 25). – Hezekiah’s trust led to angelic deliverance without paying tribute (2 Kings 19:35). • New-covenant echoes: “Seek first the kingdom… and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33); “God is able to make all grace abound” (2 Corinthians 9:8); “My God will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). summary Amaziah hesitated because obedience looked expensive. The prophet answered that no earthly cost can outweigh divine provision. God calls His people to trust Him with their finances, plans, and futures; when we let go of compromised alliances or ill-gotten gains, He remains more than able to supply “much more than this.” |
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