Topical Bible: Prayer: Answered: The Reubenites, for Deliverance from the Hagarites

◄ Prayer: Answered: The Reubenites, for Deliverance from the Hagarites ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the Reubenites' prayer for deliverance from the Hagarites is a significant example of divine intervention in response to earnest supplication. This event is recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 1 Chronicles 5:18-22, where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh are described as engaging in battle against the Hagarites.

Context and Background

The Reubenites, along with the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, were settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River. These tribes were known for their valor and military prowess. The Hagarites, a nomadic tribe descended from Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant of Sarah, were a formidable adversary. The conflict with the Hagarites arose as these eastern tribes sought to expand and secure their territories.

The Prayer and Its Answer

In the face of this formidable enemy, the Reubenites and their allies turned to God in prayer. The biblical narrative highlights their dependence on divine assistance rather than solely relying on their military strength. 1 Chronicles 5:20 states, "They were helped in fighting them, and God delivered the Hagrites and all their allies into their hands, because they cried out to Him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in Him."

This passage underscores the power of prayer and faith. The Reubenites' cry to God was not a mere ritualistic act but a genuine plea for help, rooted in trust and reliance on the Almighty. Their faith was met with a tangible response, as God granted them victory over their enemies.

Significance

The deliverance of the Reubenites from the Hagarites serves as a testament to the efficacy of prayer and the faithfulness of God to those who earnestly seek Him. It illustrates the principle that God is attentive to the cries of His people and is willing to intervene in their circumstances when they place their trust in Him.

This event also highlights the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty in battles and challenges. The victory was not attributed to the might of the warriors but to the intervention of God, who heard their prayers and acted on their behalf.

Lessons for Believers

For contemporary believers, the account of the Reubenites' answered prayer offers encouragement to approach God with confidence and faith, especially in times of distress. It serves as a reminder that God is a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (cf. Psalm 46:1). The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's power and to seek His guidance and deliverance through prayer, knowing that He is faithful to respond to those who earnestly call upon His name.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 5:20
And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that were with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was entreated of them; because they put their trust in him.
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