“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!” Hezekiah’s words greatly encouraged the people.

— 2 Chronicles 32:7–8 (NLT)

Often, we may think that God Himself will appear when we call on Him for help. Though a few have witnessed such encounters, God does not always come in person. Instead, He sends help, opens doors of favor, provides resources, gives ideas, and speaks through counsel and guidance—revealing that only He could have done such a thing.

In the same way, the miracles, healing, and breakthroughs we experience often come through unexpected means, yet clearly reflect the hand of God.

This passage reveals such an incident. When the king of Judah learned that the king of Assyria was planning to attack Jerusalem, he did not panic. Instead, he called his counselors and military advisors. Following their guidance, he gathered many people and stopped the flow of the springs, cutting off the brook that ran through the fields so the Assyrians could not access water. He also repaired the broken sections of the wall, erected towers, and built an inner wall.

While taking these steps, the king was not acting out of fear but out of wisdom. He trusted the Lord and at the same time prepared to defend the people.

At the same time, he encouraged the people not to be afraid but to be courageous. He spoke with confidence, reminding them that the power with them was far greater than the army of Assyria, because the Lord was on their side.

As a result, the story ends in victory. The angel of the Lord struck down a great number of the enemy, and the king of Assyria, who had intimidated the people of God, fled from the camp and was eventually killed by his own sons.

Time and again, the Bible records such incidents to show that God has never forsaken those who trust in Him.

Through this, we also learn that God speaks through His Word and provides instruction and strategy to navigate difficult times. It is important to be attentive and to follow His voice, when revealed through godly counsel. The Bible reminds us of the value of surrounding ourselves with people who fear the Lord and can give wise direction.

Instead of leading us into fear, they help us find strategy. Instead of increasing anxiety, they help us walk through situations with clarity and strength.

After this victory, the king became prosperous, successful, and highly honored.

This is a strong reminder for us not to be afraid of situations, positions, or threats, but to be courageous. We have a mighty God and a heavenly army on our side. He gives us grace and wisdom to walk through every threatening situation and leads us into victory.

Not only will you be victorious, but God will also be glorified through your life.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being the One who fights my battles. Help me to trust You and also walk in wisdom. Teach me not to fear but to be strong and courageous in every situation. Surround me with godly counsel and guide me through every challenge. Let my life bring glory to Your name.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.