Summary of 1 Chronicles 5:20 Meaning

This verse highlights the themes of divine assistance in times of conflict and the importance of faith in God during battle. The success of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh against their enemies is attributed to their faith and dependency on God.

• Trust in God: The verse exemplifies the necessity of putting one's trust in the Lord for deliverance.
• Divine Help: It emphasizes how God responds to the cries of His people when they earnestly seek His help.
• Victory Through Faith: The outcome of their battles serves as an illustration of faith leading to victory.

Commentary Insights

The combined insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide a comprehensive understanding of this verse. Each commentator highlights several key aspects:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the power of prayer and the assurance that God helps those who call upon Him. Henry remarks that their cry in battle reflects a sincere trust in God's power.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes discusses the context of the conflict and how the Israelites were victorious because they relied solely on their God and not on their own strength or numbers. He notes the significance of crying out to God as an expression of their dependence.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke points out that the Hagarites represented a formidable enemy, yet through faith and divine intervention, the Israelite tribes were able to overcome them. Clarke reflects on the relevance of this verse as an encouragement for believers to trust God amidst life’s battles.

Bible Cross-References

To further enhance the understanding of 1 Chronicles 5:20, the following Bible verses show thematic connections and reinforce the message of divine assistance and trust in God:

• Psalms 20:7-8: "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." This illustrates the contrast between human reliance and divine trust.
• 2 Chronicles 20:12: "For we have no power against this great company that comes against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee." This reflects a complete dependence on God in times of distress.
• Isaiah 41:10: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee." This verse offers reassurance of God's presence and support.
• Philippians 4:6-7: "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Emphasizes the role of prayer in seeking divine help.
• 1 Samuel 17:47: "…for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hands." This affirms that battles belong to God, not to human strength.
• Romans 8:31: "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?" This underscores the power of divine support in spiritual warfare.
• Hebrews 11:6: "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." This verse stresses the importance of faith in receiving God's help.

Thematic Connections

Thematically, 1 Chronicles 5:20 resonates with various scriptural themes of divine assistance, the power of faith, and the effectiveness of prayer in the battles of life. These connections across Scripture provide a rich backdrop for understanding how God engages with His people during challenging times.

Conclusion

1 Chronicles 5:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and reliance on God during life's battles. Commentaries from revered biblical scholars reinforce that God is ever-ready to help those who come to Him in trust and earnest prayer.