2 Chronicles 14:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Chronicles 14:11
11 And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee.
Chapter Context
2 Chronicles 14 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, salvation, truth. Written during the post-exilic reflection on the monarchy (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written to remind returning exiles of their temple-centered worship and Davidic heritage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Chronicles 14:11
11 And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee.
Analysis
King Asa's prayer facing overwhelming odds: 'And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee.' This prayer acknowledges that God's power is independent of human strength - whether many or few, strong or weak, makes no difference to God. The basis for confidence: 'we rest on thee' (dependence) and 'in thy name' (by divine authority). The final appeal - 'let not man prevail against thee' - recognizes that attacks on God's people are ultimately challenges to God Himself. Christ embodies this truth - His victory over sin and death came through weakness (the cross), demonstrating God's power perfected in weakness.
Historical Context
Asa faced Ethiopian invasion with million-strong army (c. 896 BCE). His prayer before battle demonstrated faith that victories belong to the LORD, not military might. God delivered Judah completely (14:12-15), validating Asa's trust and providing an enduring example of dependence on God alone.
Reflection
- What overwhelming odds are you facing where you need to recognize 'it is nothing with God to help' regardless of your weakness?
- How does understanding that opposition to you as God's child is ultimately opposition to God Himself change your perspective on spiritual battles?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: 2 Chronicles 13:14, 1 Samuel 14:6, Psalms 120:1, Proverbs 18:10, Jeremiah 1:19, Acts 2:21
- References God: 2 Chronicles 13:18, Psalms 20:7, Romans 8:31
- Parallel theme: Psalms 22:5