diff --git a/content/bible_journal/2chronicles/18:28-34.md b/content/bible_journal/2chronicles/18:28-34.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a9ba74f --- /dev/null +++ b/content/bible_journal/2chronicles/18:28-34.md @@ -0,0 +1,33 @@ ++++ +title = "2 Chronicles 18:28–34" +date = "2025-02-10" ++++ + +### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/2Chronicles18.28-34) + +Despite the warning from Micaiah, Ahab and Jehoshaphat continue the plan to go take Ramoth-gilead back from the Syrians. +On the face of it, it seems like they should have known better, but remember that the Lord had decreed that Ahab would be defeated, so it must happen this way. +What I really don't understand is how Jehoshapaht agrees to Ahab's battle plan. +"I'm going incognito; you make yourself a great big target." +This obviously sounds good from Ahab's perspective, but it doesn't seem to make sense for Jehoshaphat in particular or for the battle as a whole. +It does indicate that Ahab is concerned about the prophecy he received, and he's trying to do something to prevent it from happening. + +Nevertheless, that is how the battle goes, and Ahab's plan "works": the Syrian chariots have orders to fight only the king of Israel, and because they only see one man in kingly robes, they target him. +With the pressure on, Jehoshaphat realizes that he is in trouble, and he cries out to God to save him. +The Lord is gracious to the king of Judah, because the Syrians realize he is not Ahab and turn away to look for him. +Before they can find him, a Syrian archer happens to hit Ahab with an arrow, giving him a fatal wound. + +It takes what is probably several hours for Ahab to die. +While he lives, he is propped up in his chariot so that his army can see that their king lives. +In [1 Kings 22](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/1Kings22) we are told that the armies of Israel and Judah break and flee at sunset when Ahab dies, fulfilling the prophecy that Micaiah had made. + +Many applications can be drawn from this historical event. +Be wary of allying with those who do not love the Lord, your God. +Seek counsel from the Lord before you make your plans. +The Lord protects and rescues those who trust in Him. +What He has said will happen, He will see accomplished. +Jehoshaphat seems to have made some foolish choices here, but the Lord was merciful and preserved his life through them and their consequences. + +* * * + +Give us wisdom and strength to follow Your ways.