2 Chronicles 20:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of 2 Chronicles 20:17
This verse continues Jahaziel's Spirit-given prophecy in 2 Chronicles 20 as Judah faces an invading coalition. Following the assurance that the battle is God's, the Lord now tells the people exactly how to respond. The next morning Jehoshaphat sends singers ahead of the army, and as they praise, God turns the enemies against one another. Verse 17 frames the obedience and trust that set up that remarkable deliverance.
What Does 2 Chronicles 20:17 Mean?
This verse completes God's reassurance to Judah and gives them their marching orders: stand still and watch God save you. The enemy is vast, yet God tells His people, "Ye shall not need to fight in this battle." Their role is to take their positions, hold steady, and witness what God will do, leaving the overpowering of the foe to Him. The phrase "see the salvation of the LORD" promises that deliverance is coming and that it will be unmistakably His work.
There is a beautiful balance here between resting and acting. They are to "stand ye still," which means to stop striving in their own strength and trust God. Yet they are also told, "to morrow go out against them," which means they must still show up, take their place, and step out in obedience. Faith makes them confident rather than passive. The double command "fear not, nor be dismayed" repeats the comfort, and the promise "the LORD will be with you" gives the reason behind it. God's presence is the difference between despair and courage. The next day Judah marched out singing praises, and God set ambushes against the enemy. The lesson endures: when we face battles beyond our power, we are called to show up, stand firm, refuse fear, and watch for the salvation that God alone can bring.
2 Chronicles 20:17 in the Original Language
The Hebrew "yatsab" (set yourselves) means to take a firm stand. "Amad" (stand still) means to remain in place, and "yeshuah" (salvation) means deliverance, rescue, and victory that God provides.
Bible Verses Related to 2 Chronicles 20:17
“Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day.”
- Exodus 14:13
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”
- Psalm 46:10
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee.”
- Isaiah 41:10
How to Apply 2 Chronicles 20:17 Today
In overwhelming circumstances, do your part by showing up and standing firm, but stop striving as if the outcome depends on you alone. Refuse fear, take your position, and watch for God's deliverance. Faith makes you steady and confident in His presence, neither passive nor panicked.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 20:17
What does 2 Chronicles 20:17 mean?
This verse completes God's reassurance to Judah and gives them their marching orders: stand still and watch God save you. The enemy is vast, yet God tells His people, "Ye shall not need to fight in this battle." Their role is to take their positions, hold steady, and witness what God will do, leaving the overpowering of the foe to Him. The phrase "see the salvation of the LORD" promises that deliverance is coming and that it will be unmistakably His work.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 20:17?
This verse continues Jahaziel's Spirit-given prophecy in 2 Chronicles 20 as Judah faces an invading coalition. Following the assurance that the battle is God's, the Lord now tells the people exactly how to respond. The next morning Jehoshaphat sends singers ahead of the army, and as they praise, God turns the enemies against one another. Verse 17 frames the obedience and trust that set up that remarkable deliverance.
How can I apply 2 Chronicles 20:17 today?
In overwhelming circumstances, do your part by showing up and standing firm, but stop striving as if the outcome depends on you alone. Refuse fear, take your position, and watch for God's deliverance. Faith makes you steady and confident in His presence, neither passive nor panicked.