1 Chronicles 5:20

And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that were with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put their trust in him.

1 Chronicles 5:20 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the account of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who lived east of the Jordan River. They fought against the Hagarites, descendants of Hagar, along with the groups Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab. The surrounding verses (1 Chronicles 5:18-22) describe a real battle and the capture of much spoil. These tribes were strong and skilled in war, yet the outcome was not decided by their own ability.

Meaning

The key phrase is “they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them.” The word “intreated” means God responded to their plea. Their victory did not come from their own strength, though they were capable warriors. It came because they “put their trust in him.” The verse clearly links their cry and trust to God’s deliverance. Their success was not due to military skill alone; it was a direct answer to prayer.

Biblical connections

This pattern appears in Psalm 50:15, where God invites His people to call upon Him in trouble, promising deliverance. Here, the tribes acted on that same principle. Their example shows that God hears the sincere prayers of those who depend on Him, not on human ability alone. The principle is consistent: reliance on God in times of trouble leads to divine intervention.

Application

Believers today face battles of many kinds: physical danger, spiritual opposition, or personal trials. The response should be the same as these tribes: cry out to God and trust Him. Prayer is not a last resort but a first response. When we face difficulty, we can bring our need honestly to God, confident that He listens and acts for those who rely on Him. The tribes acted as true Israelites, trusting in God’s power rather than their own army.

Reflection

This verse invites us to examine where we place our confidence. Do we trust our own skills, resources, or plans more than God? The tribes were strong, yet they still cried to God. Their deliverance reminds us that divine help is available to all who sincerely seek it. God remains faithful to those who put their trust in Him, both in ancient battles and in our daily lives.