Definition: And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 14:14. It’s a really important passage about God’s power and how He protects His people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Gerar was under attack: The verse tells us that the city of Gerar, located near Jerusalem, was being attacked by enemies. Fear came over them: God sent a feeling of fear among the Israelites – a deep, overwhelming dread. This wasn’t just a normal fear; it was a fear of the LORD . They destroyed everything: Because of this fear, the people of Gerar panicked and started destroying their homes, shops, and all their possessions. They spoiled everything! What does "exceeding much spoil" mean? This is where it gets really powerful. “Exceeding much spoil” means a huge amount of wealth was lost. It wasn't just a little bit – it was a massive amount of money, goods, and resources that were destroyed. The Overall Message: This verse emphasizes God’s power and protection. It shows that God isn't just concerned with our well-being; He actively intervenes to defend us from harm. It also highlights the consequence of fear – it can lead to destruction and loss. Think of it like this: Imagine a bully trying to steal your toys. You’d likely react with anger and protect what you have, right? God is acting like that bully – He's protecting His people from evil. In short, the verse describes a devastating attack on Gerar because fear gripped the people, leading to widespread destruction and loss of wealth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage (when did it happen)? Explore what this verse might be teaching us about faith and courage?