In the early years of the divided kingdom, “there was war between” Judah and Israel (2 Chron. 13:2). “Jeroboam caused an ambush to go around behind [Judah]; so they were in front of Judah, and the ambush was behind them. And when Judah looked around, to their surprise the battle line was at both front and rear; and they cried out to the Lord…” (13:13-14). The outcome of this battle was that “Judah prevailed” (13:18) and 500,000 choice men of Israel were killed. Why did God choose to deliver the children of Judah and not help the children of Israel to be victorious? The answer is plain and one we need to appreciate – “The children of Judah prevailed because they…” What do you think it is going to say? Why did they prevail? “The children of Judah prevailed because they relied on the Lord God of their fathers” (13:18).
How much do you rely on God? Really, how deep is your daily trust that He will be with you, protect you and deliver you? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6). Is this you?