Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks by Jehoshaphat

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The concept of armies marching in ranks is vividly illustrated in the biblical account of King Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah. Jehoshaphat, known for his piety and reforms, sought to strengthen his kingdom both spiritually and militarily. His reign is detailed in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, where his efforts to organize and prepare his army are highlighted.

Jehoshaphat's military organization is particularly noted in 2 Chronicles 17:12-19. The passage describes how Jehoshaphat fortified the cities of Judah and stationed troops in strategic locations. The text states: "Jehoshaphat grew stronger and stronger. He built fortresses and store cities in Judah and carried out great works in the cities of Judah. He had large supplies in the towns of Judah, and he kept experienced fighting men in Jerusalem" (2 Chronicles 17:12-13).

The army of Jehoshaphat was meticulously organized, with commanders appointed over various divisions. The scripture provides a detailed account of the military leaders and the number of troops under their command. For instance, the passage mentions: "Adnah the commander, with 300,000 fighting men; next to him, Jehohanan the commander, with 280,000; next to him, Amasiah son of Zicri, who volunteered himself for the service of the LORD, with 200,000" (2 Chronicles 17:14-16). This structured approach ensured that the army was not only numerous but also well-coordinated and ready for battle.

Jehoshaphat's emphasis on marching in ranks reflects a broader biblical principle of order and discipline within the people of God. The organization of his army can be seen as a reflection of his commitment to following divine guidance and ensuring that his kingdom was prepared to face any external threats. This preparation was not merely for physical battles but also symbolized spiritual readiness and reliance on God.

Moreover, Jehoshaphat's reforms extended beyond military organization. He was dedicated to spiritual revival, sending officials, Levites, and priests throughout Judah to teach the people the Law of the LORD (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). This dual focus on spiritual and military preparedness underscores the holistic approach Jehoshaphat took in leading his people.

The account of Jehoshaphat's armies marching in ranks serves as an example of godly leadership, where faith and practical action are intertwined. His reign is marked by a reliance on God, as seen in his famous prayer during the invasion of the Moabites and Ammonites, where he declared, "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12). This dependence on divine guidance, coupled with strategic military organization, exemplifies the biblical ideal of leadership that trusts in God's sovereignty while actively engaging in responsible stewardship.

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2 Chronicles 20:22
And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushes against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.
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Library

The Shout of Faith
... a few directions as to the order of their march, and blowing ... the Lord of hosts, the
God of the armies of Israel ... his way to take his place in the ranks with his ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/smith/the god of all comfort/chapter 14 the shout of.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... It was owing to this, and also to the fact that the armies of all these ... travellers
mention a place called es-Sauar or es- Saur, eight hours' march from the ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... He could either continue his march westwards, and, penetrating ... till he had annihilated
its armies and rased ... Indeed, as we have seen, Jehoshaphat, encouraged by ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... them away,"that ancient river, the river Kishon."O my soul, march on with ... took their
places each at the head of his own contingent.* Their armies were made ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm