Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigned during a period marked by both religious reform and military challenges. His reign is notably chronicled in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles, where his efforts to follow the ways of the Lord and his encounters with surrounding nations are detailed.

Background and Reign

Jehoshaphat was the son of Asa and succeeded him as king. He is remembered for his commitment to the worship of Yahweh and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. Jehoshaphat sent officials, along with Levites and priests, throughout the land to teach the people from the Book of the Law, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9. His reign was characterized by a desire to bring the people back to the covenantal faithfulness of their forefathers.

The Threat of the Allied Forces

One of the most significant events during Jehoshaphat's reign was the threat posed by a coalition of enemy forces. The Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites (referred to as the Amorites in some contexts) formed an alliance against Judah. This formidable coalition posed a significant threat to the stability and security of Jehoshaphat's kingdom.

2 Chronicles 20:1-2 states, "After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites, came to make war against Jehoshaphat. Then some men came and told Jehoshaphat, 'A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Sea. It is already in Hazazon-tamar' (that is, En Gedi)."

Jehoshaphat's Response

Faced with this overwhelming threat, Jehoshaphat turned to the Lord in prayer and fasting. He proclaimed a fast for all Judah, and the people gathered to seek help from the Lord. Jehoshaphat's prayer, recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:5-12, is a profound expression of faith and reliance on God. He acknowledged God's sovereignty and reminded the Lord of His promises to Abraham's descendants.

Jehoshaphat's prayer included these words: "Our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).

Divine Intervention and Victory

In response to Jehoshaphat's prayer, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, a Levite, who delivered a prophetic message of assurance. Jahaziel declared that the battle belonged to the Lord and instructed the people not to be afraid or discouraged. He assured them that they would not need to fight, but to stand firm and witness the deliverance of the Lord (2 Chronicles 20:15-17).

The following day, Jehoshaphat appointed singers to praise the Lord as they went out before the army. As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the enemy forces, causing them to turn on each other. The allied forces were defeated without Judah having to engage in battle (2 Chronicles 20:21-23).

Aftermath and Legacy

The victory over the Moabites, Ammonites, and their allies was a testament to God's faithfulness and power. The fear of God came upon all the surrounding kingdoms when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. Jehoshaphat's kingdom enjoyed peace and rest on every side (2 Chronicles 20:29-30).

Jehoshaphat's reign is remembered for his dedication to God and his reliance on divine guidance in times of crisis. His account serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and obedience to God in the face of overwhelming challenges.2 Chronicles 20:1
It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them other beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.
Nave's Topical Index

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of Jerusalem, the Canaanites collected their forces in the ... and, as the remnant of
Simeon allied themselves with ... to the first comer; the Amorites, the Ammonites ...
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