Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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The Caring God Who Defends His People 

Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 32:9-23

Key verse: 2 Chronicles 20. King Hezekiah and the Prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried to heaven about this. 21.And the LORD sent an angel who annihilated all the fighting men and the commanders and officers in the camp of the Assyrian King.

DEVOTION

In 2 Chronicles 32:9–23, we read about King Hezekiah and the people of Judah facing a powerful enemy. Sennacherib, king of Assyria, surrounded Jerusalem with a mighty army and sent messages filled with fear, intimidation, and mockery. He questioned the power of the LORD God and tried to convince the people that trusting in the Lord was useless. His words were meant to weaken their faith and cause them to surrender without a fight.
This passage reminds us that opposition often comes not only through circumstances but also through words that stir fear and doubt. The enemy attacked the people’s confidence by comparing the LORD God to powerless idols, attempting to make them believe that the Lord was no different from the gods of other nations. Even today, believers face similar challenges when voices around us question God’s ability to save, provide, or intervene in our situations.
King Hezekiah encouraged the people with these words “With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles”(2Chronicles 32:8). Instead of arguing back or relying on military strategy alone, Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah turned to prayer. They cried out to God, fully dependent on His power. Their response teaches us that prayer is not a last resort, but our greatest defense when we are overwhelmed. God answered their prayers in a mighty way. The Lord sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army, bringing deliverance without Judah lifting a sword. What seemed impossible was resolved by God’s intervention. This victory was not for human glory but for the honor of God’s name. As a result, the nations recognized the greatness of the Lord God and Hezekiah was greatly respected.
When we face fear, or discouragement, we are reminded that our battles belong to the Lord. Trusting God does not mean ignoring reality, but choosing faith over fear. As we place our confidence in Him, He proves once again that He is faithful and powerful to save.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, help me to trust You when I face fear and opposition. Teach me to rely on Your strength instead of my own. Give me the faith to pray and wait for Your deliverance, knowing that You fight my battles. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

   “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14      

   Glory Chacko, Epiphany Mar Thoma Church, New York

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