What does 2 Chronicles 17:10 mean?
"¶ And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat." - 2 Chronicles 17:10

The verse 2 Chronicles 17:10 from the King James Version of the Bible reads: "And the fear of the Lord fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat." This verse comes from the Old Testament, specifically the books of Chronicles, which focus on the history of Israel and Judah, and the reigns of their kings.
In order to understand the full meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to provide some context. Jehoshaphat was the fourth king of Judah, following the reign of his father Asa. He is described in the Bible as a king who "did what was right in the eyes of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 20:32), and his reign was marked by a number of reforms and military successes.
In 2 Chronicles 17, we read about how Jehoshaphat strengthened his kingdom both spiritually and militarily. He appointed officials, teachers, and Levites to instruct the people in the law of the Lord. He also fortified the cities of Judah and trained an army, which numbered in the millions, for defense purposes.
The verse 10, in particular, highlights the impact of Jehoshaphat's leadership and his faith in the Lord. It states that the fear of the Lord fell upon all the kingdoms surrounding Judah, and as a result, they made no war against him. This fear was not of a terrorizing kind, but a deep reverence and respect for the God of the Israelites. This fear was a manifestation of the awe and power of God, which served as a deterrent to the surrounding nations. It was a supernatural work of God, influencing the hearts of the neighboring kings and peoples to refrain from provoking Judah into war.
The verse, therefore, conveys the themes of divine protection, faith, and the sovereignty of God. It speaks to the idea that when a nation or a people honor God and follow His ways, He provides them with security and peace. The fear of the Lord, in this context, is not a fear of punishment, but a recognition of His authority and a reverence for His power.
The verse also reflects the broader theme of the Old Testament, which is the relationship between God and His chosen people. Throughout the Old Testament, we see instances of God's faithfulness to Israel and Judah, and how their obedience to Him results in His blessings and protection. In this case, the passage highlights how Jehoshaphat's commitment to God's ways brought about security and peace for his kingdom.
Furthermore, the verse serves as a symbolic representation of how the fear of the Lord can bring about peace and security in our lives. When individuals, communities, and nations recognize the authority and power of God, they can experience His protection and guidance. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of living in obedience to God's commandments and seeking His will in all aspects of life.
In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 17:10 from the King James Version of the Bible holds great significance in conveying the themes of divine protection, faith, and the sovereignty of God. It illustrates how the fear of the Lord can bring about peace and security, and serves as a reminder of the importance of living in obedience to God's ways. This verse not only provides insight into the historical context of Jehoshaphat's reign but also offers timeless truths that are relevant to believers today.
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2 Chronicles 17:10 - "¶ And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat."
"¶ And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat." - 2 Chronicles 17:10
2 Chronicles 10:17 - "But as for the children of Israel that dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them."
"But as for the children of Israel that dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them." - 2 Chronicles 10:17
2 Chronicles 23:17
2 Chronicles 23:17
2 Chronicles 23:10
2 Chronicles 23:10
2 Chronicles 30:10
2 Chronicles 35:10
2 Chronicles 17:17 - "And of Benjamin; Eliada a mighty man of valour, and with him armed men with bow and shield two hundred thousand."
1 Chronicles 2:17 - "And Abigail bare Amasa: and the father of Amasa was Jether the Ishmeelite."
2 Chronicles 17:15 - "And next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and fourscore thousand."
2 Chronicles 8:17 - "¶ Then went Solomon to Ezion-geber, and to Eloth, at the sea side in the land of Edom."
2 Chronicles 9:17 - "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with pure gold."
2 Chronicles 28:17 - "For again the Edomites had come and smitten Judah, and carried away captives."
2 Chronicles 17:12 - "¶ And Jehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly; and he built in Judah castles, and cities of store."
2 Corinthians 10:17 - "But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
2 Chronicles 10:19 - "And Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day."
1 Chronicles 17:2 - "Then Nathan said unto David, Do all that is in thine heart; for God is with thee."
2 Chronicles 17:18 - "And next him was Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war."
2 Chronicles 17:1 - "And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel."
2 Chronicles 33:10 - "And the LORD spake to Manasseh, and to his people: but they would not hearken."
2 Chronicles 17:4 - "But sought to the LORD God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel."
2 Chronicles 4:17 - "In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zeredathah."
2 Chronicles 17:19 - "These waited on the king, beside those whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah."
2 Chronicles 26:17 - "And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men:"
2 Chronicles 11:10 - "And Zorah, and Aijalon, and Hebron, which are in Judah and in Benjamin fenced cities."
1 Chronicles 2:10 - "And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, prince of the children of Judah;"
2 Chronicles 33:17 - "Nevertheless the people did sacrifice still in the high places, yet unto the LORD their God only."