Definition: Now in the eighteenth year of king Jeroboam began Abijah to reign over Judah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:1. It's a really important starting point for understanding how God’s plan is unfolding. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that King Jeroboam started ruling over Judah after the eighteenth year of his reign. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Now”: This sets up a timeline – we're talking about something that happened after a certain point. “In the eighteenth year…” This refers to a specific period, likely around 730 BC (which is when the verse was written). It’s a long time ago! “…of king Jeroboam”: This identifies who started ruling – King Jeroboam was the king of Judah at this time. “began…” This means he started or initially began to rule. So, it’s saying that after a long period of leadership, King Jeroboam officially took over and started governing Judah. What's the significance? This verse is often seen as a sign that God was establishing His plan for Israel (and Judah) even before the Babylonian exile. It's a moment where God began to actively shape events and establish a kingdom. It’s a foundational moment in how we understand the beginnings of the history of these people. Do you want me to: Explain what 2 Chronicles 13 tells us about the situation before King Jeroboam started ruling? Give you some context about the time period (around 730 BC)?

Definition: But as for us, the LORD [is] our God, and we have not forsaken him; and the priests, which minister unto the LORD, [are] the sons of Aaron, and the Levites [wait] upon [their] business:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:10. It’s a really interesting and slightly poetic passage about how God sees his people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying: God is Our Priority: “But as for us, the LORD is our God…” – This tells us that God isn't just any God; He’s the most important God to us. He’s the one who matters most. We Haven’t Abandoned Him: “and we have not forsaken him” – This means we’re loyal and committed to Him, even when things are tough or difficult. We're not giving up on our relationship with God. The Priests Are Serving: “And the priests, which minister unto the LORD, are the sons of Aaron, and the Levites [wait] upon [their] business.” – This is where it gets a little more symbolic. Let’s unpack that: Priests: These were specifically chosen to serve God directly in the temple. They were like messengers and administrators. Sons of Aaron: This refers to the royal priests, who were connected to the King and held a special position of authority in worshiping God. Levites: This is a group of people dedicated to serving the Temple – they were responsible for maintaining the temple's upkeep, performing rituals, and leading prayer. They were waiting on their "business" – meaning they were focused on their duties. So, putting it all together: God sees his people as loyal and committed to Him. He’s entrusted these priests (who are connected to the king) with a very important job of serving him directly in the temple. They're waiting patiently for instructions or tasks from God. What does this verse teach us? It shows that: God values our loyalty: He sees us as dependable and committed. We have a role to play: Even though we’re not in the direct leadership, we're important because we are dedicated to serving Him. There's a sense of anticipation: The Levites are waiting for something – perhaps a sign, a message, or a task from God. In short, it’s a beautiful picture of God’s watchful care and the importance of his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in biblical history? Discuss what this passage might symbolize in a broader context (like faith, obedience, or service)?

Definition: And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense: the shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye have forsaken him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:11 together. It’s a really important passage about worship and obedience. Here’s what it essentially means in plain language: The Core Idea: This verse describes a ritual of worship that emphasizes constant and focused dedication to God. It's not just occasional offerings, but a sustained effort to honor the Lord through prayer and sacrifice. Let’s look at each part: “And they burn unto the LORD every morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet incense…” – This means people were regularly offering food and scents as a sign of devotion to God. It was a constant practice, not just done sporadically. "Burnt" implies a significant amount – it wasn't just a small offering. “The shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with the lamps thereof, to burn every evening:” - This is where it gets really important. They were specifically arranging their offerings on a table (the “pure table”) and using candles (lamps) to light them. The idea was to create a visual representation of their devotion – a clear and beautiful display that showed they were offering to God. “And the charge of the LORD our God:” - This is a very important phrase. It means they were keeping their focus on God and honoring Him . It's not about doing something , but being mindful of God and directing their actions towards Him. “…but ye have forsaken him.” – This is the crucial part. They had stopped dedicating themselves to God, focusing on other things, and neglecting the relationship with Him. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse paints a picture of a people who were too busy or too preoccupied with worldly concerns that they neglected their primary devotion to God. It’s a warning against being distracted from the true focus of worship – focusing on God's will and relationship with Him. It highlights the importance of prioritizing the Lord above all else. In short, it's a call to repentance: to refocus our attention back to God and remember His presence in our lives. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an analogy? Discuss its historical context (when did this happen)? Explore what the message of this verse really means for us today?

Definition: And, behold, God himself [is] with us for [our] captain, and his priests with sounding trumpets to cry alarm against you. O children of Israel, fight ye not against the LORD God of your fathers; for ye shall not prosper.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:12 together. It's a really important and serious message about a time of conflict. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is actively involved in helping Israel during a difficult time. He’s sending a powerful sign to warn them about a dangerous situation. Let’s unpack the parts: “And, behold…” : This phrase is like saying “Here’s what’s happening” or "It's important to know this." It’s a way of introducing something significant. “…God himself [is] with us…” : This means God isn’t just observing the situation; He’s actively participating and helping. He’s offering his support and strength. “…for [our] captain…” : This is a figurative way of saying “for our leader” or “for our people.” It refers to Israel, specifically its leaders and their people. "...and his priests with sounding trumpets to cry alarm against you.” : Priests were responsible for warning the people about dangers. The "trumpets" are a symbolic way of saying they were signaling something important – a warning! “O children of Israel, fight ye not against the LORD God of your fathers…” : This is the most crucial part. It’s telling them to stop fighting against God. They're being warned to stop acting like they're challenging him or defying his will. "...for ye shall not prosper.” : This means that if they continue on their current path, they won’t be successful or prosperous – meaning they won't have a good life or achieve their goals. In short: God is sending a strong warning to Israel to stop fighting against him and to focus on following his instructions. It’s a message about respecting God’s authority and avoiding disobedience. What does this mean in the bigger picture? This verse often points to a time of trouble – perhaps a rebellion, or a growing threat to Israel's safety. It's a call for obedience and faithfulness to God's will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you an analogy that helps illustrate the message? Discuss what this verse might be related to in biblical history?

Definition: But Jeroboam caused an ambushment to come about behind them: so they were before Judah, and the ambushment [was] behind them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:13. It's a really important part of understanding how God dealt with Jeroboam and his followers. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God was setting up a trap for the people of Judah. “But Jeroboam caused an ambushment…” – This means Jeroboam, who was a leader, planned to attack the Israelites (and Judah) from behind. Think of it like a secret, hidden path leading into battle. “…to come about behind them.” - This is key! It's not just any ambush; it’s an ambush that happened behind the people of Judah. So, what was happening? Jeroboam was trying to trick the Israelites into a battle where they were caught off guard. He wanted to overwhelm them with a surprise attack. It wasn't just a random attack; it was deliberately set up for a confrontation. Why is this important? This verse shows that God is very careful and protective of his people. It’s not about just any conflict; it's about strategically positioning himself to defend against evil. It highlights that He has a plan, even when things seem chaotic or dangerous. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time period this verse came from? Answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: And when Judah looked back, behold, the battle [was] before and behind: and they cried unto the LORD, and the priests sounded with the trumpets.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage together. It’s a pretty dramatic verse from the Book of 2 Chronicles! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment when Judah (which is part of Israel) was facing a difficult situation and desperately pleading for help. It suggests that they were both looking back at a past conflict, but also experiencing the consequences of that past – a battle happening both in their memories and in reality. Let's unpack it further: “And when Judah looked back…” : This means Judah was reflecting on its history, remembering past events, perhaps particularly concerning times of war or trouble. It’s acknowledging a painful past. “…behold, the battle [was] before and behind:” This is the really important part. "Battle" here doesn't mean a physical battle like in a video game. It refers to a spiritual war , a struggle between good and evil, or a difficult situation that was happening in Judah’s history. “And they cried unto the LORD…” : Judah was acknowledging their need for divine guidance and protection. They were asking for help from God. “and the priests sounded with the trumpets.” Priests traditionally played instruments like trumpets to call upon God, especially during times of crisis. This suggests that the priests were using this as a way to signal that they needed a powerful intervention. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of Judah being caught in a cycle – remembering their past mistakes and struggles while simultaneously feeling the weight of those struggles and needing divine help to overcome them. It's a moment of intense reflection and pleading, highlighting a time of significant challenge. Why is this important? It’s often seen as a symbol of times when people are struggling with the consequences of their past actions or choices. It speaks to the importance of repentance, seeking forgiveness, and ultimately, turning away from wrongdoing. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse in the same passage? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader context (like the story of Israel)?

Definition: Then the men of Judah gave a shout: and as the men of Judah shouted, it came to pass, that God smote Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:15. It's a pretty dramatic passage about a conflict and God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jeroboam was a King: The verse tells us that Jeroboam, a king of Judah, was being challenged by God. Judah Started Shout: A group of people in Judah – they were the people who were leading the challenge – started shouting loudly. This wasn’t a peaceful protest; it was a defiant action. God's Response - A Judgment: God heard this shout and smote (punished severely) Jeroboam and all of Israel. Putting it Together – What Happened? Basically, God saw that Jeroboam’s actions were disruptive and disrespectful to Him. He decided to punish him and the entire nation of Israel with a devastating consequence: He sent a terrible storm or disaster upon them. Key Takeaways: God's Justice: This verse highlights God's justice – that he will not tolerate disobedience and disrespect towards him. Divine Punishment: It’s a clear example of God using punishment to correct wrongdoing and protect His people. A Turning Point: It marks a significant turning point in Israel’s history, leading to a period of hardship and separation. Important Note: The verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of defying God's will. It emphasizes that disobedience leads to consequences. --- Do you want me to explain any specific part of this verse further? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "smote" means in this context? Discuss the historical significance of this event?

Definition: And the children of Israel fled before Judah: and God delivered them into their hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:16. It’s a pretty dramatic statement about God’s intervention! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is showing that He actively intervened to help the Israelites avoid a disaster. He didn't just allow them to flee; He actively guided them out of the area. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the children of Israel fled before Judah…” – This tells us that the Israelites were in trouble, and they were running away from something. “Judah” is a specific place – a region within the land of Israel. It's important to understand this isn’t necessarily about a single location; it refers to the area of the south. “…God delivered them into their hand.” - This is the key part! God wasn’t just watching from afar. He actively protected and guided the Israelites, essentially giving them a chance to escape. What does this tell us about God's relationship with Israel? This verse shows: God's Protective Nature: It emphasizes that God is concerned about his people and wants to keep them safe. His Active Involvement: He didn’t just passively watch; he actively worked to prevent a disaster. It implies a significant role for divine intervention. A Moment of Crisis & Divine Guidance: It highlights a time when the Israelites were facing a serious challenge, and God stepped in to help them overcome it. In short, this verse is about God’s powerful protection and guidance saving the Israelites from a potential threat. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of the story in 2 Chronicles? Discuss what kind of "disaster" this verse refers to?

Definition: And Abijah and his people slew them with a great slaughter: so there fell down slain of Israel five hundred thousand chosen men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 2 Chronicles 13:17. It’s a really significant and dramatic verse in the Bible, and it speaks about a massive victory for God’s people. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: The Enemy: The verse tells us that the Moabites (a group of people living in southwestern Israel) were being led by a powerful king named Abijah. They were a significant force, and they were facing a large army. A Huge Battle: God decided to decisively defeat them. He commanded his people to attack with a “great slaughter.” This wasn’t just a skirmish; it was a massive, overwhelming battle. The Result: A Massive Loss “Five hundred thousand chosen men” is the key part. "Chosen men" refers to Israelite soldiers – those who were specifically chosen and trusted by God for a specific purpose. So, this verse means they lost more than half of their entire army in one battle! What Does It Mean? This verse is a powerful example of God’s power and His protection over his people. It highlights several things: God's Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control of events, even against seemingly strong enemies. He chooses to intervene and ultimately prevail. Divine Protection: It emphasizes that God’s people are protected by Him, and that He will always defend them. A Significant Victory: The fact that they lost so many men speaks volumes about the strength of God's army and the devastating impact of his victory. Important Note: The exact details of this battle are debated among historians and scholars. However, it’s generally understood to have occurred during a time of intense conflict in ancient Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage (when did it happen, why was it significant)? Talk about the symbolism behind this story?

Definition: Thus the children of Israel were brought under at that time, and the children of Judah prevailed, because they relied upon the LORD God of their fathers.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 13:18. It’s a pretty important message about faith and obedience. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that the Israelites were in a difficult situation – they were being brought under the control of a powerful force – and the people of Judah (which was part of Israel) ultimately succeeded because they trusted God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Thus the children of Israel were brought under at that time..." - This means they were facing challenges, maybe being ruled or controlled by something outside their control – perhaps a powerful enemy, or a difficult situation with a leader they didn't like. "...and the children of Judah prevailed..." - "Judah" refers to the people of Judah, who were part of Israel. "Prevailed" means they won or succeeded. "...because they relied upon the LORD God of their fathers." – This is the key part! The Israelites were reliant on God. They weren't just asking for things; they were trusting in His guidance and protection. “Their fathers” refers to the ancestors who had led them through a difficult journey, and it emphasizes that their faith was rooted in a connection with God’s past. So, what does it all mean? It suggests that trusting in God is essential for success. When people rely on God's help and guidance, they are more likely to overcome challenges and achieve good things. It highlights the importance of faith and obedience as a way to stay safe and prosper. In short: The verse emphasizes that faith in God’s plan was vital for the Israelites to succeed – even when facing difficult times. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you a more detailed explanation of a specific part of this verse?