Definition: And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of [those] countries, when they had heard that the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 20:29. It’s a really important and powerful statement about faith and the power of God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that everyone in the countries surrounding Israel – including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Moabites, and others – started to feel afraid of God. Let's unpack that a little further: “The fear of God”: This isn’t just any kind of fear. It means a deep, reverent feeling of awe and respect for God. It’s a recognition of his power and holiness. “On all the kingdoms…” This is key. It's not just one kingdom that felt afraid; it was every country surrounding Israel. “…of those countries…” This refers to the nations that were fighting against Israel – the Egyptians, Assyrians, Moabites, etc. What happened as a result? The verse describes a shift in attitude and behavior. When people realized they were facing a powerful enemy, they started to acknowledge God's power and might. This fear wasn’t just a feeling; it was a real fear – a recognition that the enemy was beyond their control. Why is this significant? This verse shows that God isn't distant or uninvolved. He actively intervenes in the world, and his presence affects everyone. It suggests: God’s Sovereignty: He is in charge of everything, even when it seems like we're losing. Our Responsibility: We are all accountable to Him, and our actions reflect his character. A Call to Obedience: The verse implies that recognizing God's power encourages people to obey His commands and trust him. In a nutshell, this verse tells us that faith in God can be a powerful thing – it can create a deep sense of awe and obedience. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this explanation? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the story in 2 Chronicles 20? Discuss what this verse might mean for believers today?