2 Chronicles 20:15
And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's.
2 Chronicles 20:15 · King James Version
Meaning
During a time of conflict and uncertainty, King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah and Jerusalem were facing a great multitude of enemies. In the midst of their fear and dismay, the Lord spoke to them through a prophet, reassuring them that they need not be afraid or discouraged because the battle was not theirs, but God's. This message is a powerful reminder that in times of struggle, we can find strength and confidence in the knowledge that God is fighting on our behalf. By placing their trust and faith in God, Jehoshaphat and the people were able to overcome their enemies and emerge victorious. This verse serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for all believers, reminding us that we do not have to face our battles alone, but that God is with us every step of the way, guiding and protecting us through the challenges we face.
Theological Overview
When considering the theological interpretation of 2 Chronicles 20:15, we see a powerful message of trust and reliance on God in the face of overwhelming odds. The verse speaks directly to King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah, assuring them that the battle they are facing is not theirs, but God's. This serves as a reminder that in times of trial and difficulty, we are not alone in our struggles but have a divine source of strength and support. The word "battle" in this context can be seen as a metaphor for any challenges or obstacles we may encounter in life, emphasizing the importance of leaning on God for guidance and protection. By heeding the Lord's command to not be afraid or dismayed, we are encouraged to place our trust in His sovereignty and ultimate control over the circumstances we face.
2 Chronicles 20:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
and he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat: Thus saith Jehovah unto you, Fear not ye, neither be dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's.
World English Bible
and he said, “Listen, all Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you king Jehoshaphat. Thus says Yahweh to you, ‘Don’t be afraid, neither be dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.
Douay-Rheims
And he said: Attend ye, all Juda, and you that dwell in Jerusalem, and thou king Josaphat: Thus saith the Lord to you: Fear ye not, and be not dismayed at this multitude: for the battle is not yours, but God's.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he said, Hearken ye, all Iudah, and ye inhabitantes of Ierusalem, and thou, King Iehoshaphat: thus saith the Lord vnto you, Feare you not, neither be afraide for this great multitude: for the battel is not yours, but Gods.