Strength in Counsel: The Power of Unity in Times of Crisis
"He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him." - 2 Chronicles 32:3
In times of adversity, when the pressure mounts and challenges seem insurmountable, how do we respond? 2 Chronicles 32:3 provides us with a powerful example from the life of King Hezekiah. The verse (KJV) states, "He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him."
The context of this scripture reveals a critical moment in King Hezekiah's reign. Jerusalem faced a formidable threat from the Assyrian king, Sennacherib. As an act of war, Sennacherib's forces encircled the city, seeking to breach its defenses. In response to this challenge, Hezekiah did not act impulsively; instead, he sought counsel. This highlights an important principle: the necessity of wisdom and collaboration during times of crisis.
Hezekiah’s action demonstrates the significance of surrounding oneself with capable leaders and wise advisors. He consulted his princes and mighty men — those who were skilled, experienced, and trusted. In our lives, we often face situations that are beyond our immediate control, and the influence of wise counsel can be invaluable. As believers, we are called to seek the wisdom of God and the insights of our community. Proverbs 11:14 says, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." This reminds us that unity in counsel not only brings strength but also divine guidance.
In choosing to stop the waters of the fountains, Hezekiah was addressing a practical issue essential for the survival of the city during a siege. By halting the external flow of water that could be used to aid an enemy or supply needs during the conflict, he was taking proactive steps in preparation for the trials ahead. He understood that in any strategic planning, practicality paired with divine guidance leads to success. It challenges us to think: what issues do we need to address in our lives? What steps can we take, in unity with others, to prepare for the challenges that loom?
The verse also notes, "and they did help him." This clause encapsulates the power of unity. When people come together, pooling their resources, intellect, and strength, they can achieve remarkable outcomes. In our Christian walk, we are called to help one another. We share each other’s burdens, rejoice in each other’s victories, and assist in overcoming challenges. In Galatians 6:2, we are reminded, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." When we support one another, we exemplify Christ’s love and draw nearer to His purpose.
Furthermore, we must consider the spiritual implications of Hezekiah’s decisions. Before taking action, it is clear he sought the Lord’s guidance and the counsel of those who knew Him (referenced throughout 2 Chronicles). In our pursuits to solve problems or overcome hurdles, we must engage in prayer and seek the Holy Spirit's lead in our plans. James 1:5 assures us, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." This wisdom combined with the support of a strong community forms the foundation for overcoming life’s adversities.
As we reflect on 2 Chronicles 32:3, may we be inspired by King Hezekiah’s example. Let us not shy away from seeking counsel during difficult times, but rather embrace the community around us. Let us come together with our brothers and sisters in Christ, taking practical steps and seeking God’s wisdom, knowing that when we do, we are stronger together. Remember that in every situation, God is our ultimate source of strength and guidance, and with Him, we can face any impending storm with confidence.
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2 Chronicles 32:3 - "He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him."
"He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him." - 2 Chronicles 32:3
2 Chronicles 32:2 - "And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,"
2 Chronicles 32:32 - "Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel."
2 Chronicles 32:20 - "And for this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to heaven."
1 Chronicles 2:32 - "And the sons of Jada the brother of Shammai; Jether, and Jonathan: and Jether died without children."
2 Chronicles 32:16 - "And his servants spake yet more against the LORD God, and against his servant Hezekiah."
2 Chronicles 32:28 - "Storehouses also for the increase of corn, and wine, and oil; and stalls for all manner of beasts, and cotes for flocks."
2 Chronicles 20:32 - "And he walked in the way of Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing that which was right in the sight of the LORD."
2 Chronicles 32:10 - "Thus saith Sennacherib king of Assyria, Whereon do ye trust, that ye abide in the siege in Jerusalem?"
2 Chronicles 32:19 - "And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth, which were the work of the hands of man."
2 Chronicles 18:32 - "For it came to pass, that, when the captains of the chariots perceived that it was not the king of Israel, they turned back again from pursuing him."
2 Chronicles 32:7 - "Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:"
2 Chronicles 34:32 - "And he caused all that were present in Jerusalem and Benjamin to stand to it. And the inhabitants of Jerusalem did according to the covenant of God, the God of their fathers."
2 Chronicles 32:29 - "Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance: for God had given him substance very much."
2 Chronicles 32:24 - "¶ In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the LORD: and he spake unto him, and he gave him a sign."
2 Chronicles 28:3
2 Chronicles 32:6 - "And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,"
2 Chronicles 32:18 - "Then they cried with a loud voice in the Jews' speech unto the people of Jerusalem that were on the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city."
2 Chronicles 32:1 - "After these things, and the establishment thereof, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah, and encamped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself."
2 Chronicles 32:23 - "And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth."
"And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem," - 2 Chronicles 32:2
2 Chronicles 29:32 - "And the number of the burnt offerings, which the congregation brought, was threescore and ten bullocks, an hundred rams, and two hundred lambs: all these were for a burnt offering to the LORD."
2 Chronicles 32:25 - "But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem."
2 Chronicles 32:22 - "Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side."
2 Chronicles 32:30 - "This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works."
isaiah 32:2-3 emphasis on Jesus Christ being unnatractive
2 Chronicles 32:27 - "¶ And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;"
2 Chronicles 32:8 - "With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah."
2 Samuel 3:32 - "And they buried Abner in Hebron: and the king lifted up his voice, and wept at the grave of Abner; and all the people wept."