Definition: If, [when] evil cometh upon us, [as] the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name [is] in this house,) and cry unto thee in our affliction, then thou wilt hear and help.
Explanation:
Okay, letâs break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 20:9. Itâs a really important message about hope and faith when things get tough. Hereâs the explanation in simpler terms:
The Basic Idea:
This verse is telling us that
even if
bad things happen â like war, sickness, or a terrible time â we shouldn't give up! We should
still
reach out to God and ask for his help.
Letâs break it down word-by-word:
âIf, [when] evil cometh upon usâŠâ
: This means "if" something bad happens. Itâs a warning about potential problems.
ââŠasâŠthe sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famineâŠâ
: This lists all the
kinds
of terrible things that could happen â war, sickness, and even devastating natural disasters like famine. Itâs not just one thing; it's a whole range of potential threats.
ââŠor famineâŠâ
: This adds another possibility â lack of food and supplies.
âwe stand before this houseâŠâ
: The verse describes the Israelites (and God) as being in a special place â a âhouseâ â which symbolizes their relationship with God. Itâs a place of importance.
ââŠand in thy presence, (for thy name [is] in this house,)â
: This is a crucial part - "in thy presence." It means we're looking to God
right now
. The word âpresenceâ implies that God is watching and aware of us.
"...and cry unto thee in our afflictionâŠ"
: This is the core of the verse â âwe cry.â Itâs a plea, a prayer, asking for his help.
ââŠthen thou wilt hear and help.â
: This means that if we
do
cry to God, he will
listen
to us and
respond
with his help. He will be aware of our situation and offer support.
In essence:
Itâs a promise that even when things are very bad, God is there for us, and we should trust him to provide assistance. It's about being prepared and having faith in God, even when facing difficult times.
It's important to remember this verse is from a time of great crisis for the Israelites.
The story of the Battle of Jerusalem is vividly described here, emphasizing the need for unwavering faith and reliance on God during challenging moments.
Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail or perhaps connect it to a specific biblical context?