“And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth quaked: so it was a very great trembling.”
Context:The passage is set during the time of Saul, the first king of Israel. Saul’s son, Jonathan, had just initiated a bold attack against the Philistines by climbing up a steep cliff with his armour-bearer to engage the enemy. God granted them a great victory, and this verse describes the aftermath of their actions.
Trembling in the host:The Hebrew word used for “host” refers to the army or camp of the Philistines. When Jonathan and his armour-bearer began their attack, confusion and fear spread among the Philistine soldiers. The unexpected assault caused panic and trembling within their ranks.
Trembling in the field and among the people:The trembling extended beyond the army and affected those outside the immediate conflict. The people who witnessed this supernatural turn of events were filled with awe and fear. They recognised that something extraordinary was happening.
The garrison and the spoilers:The garrison refers to the fortified Philistine outpost, likely stationed to control and oppress the Israelites. The spoilers were bands of Philistines who conducted raids and pillaged the Israelite territories. Both the garrison and the spoilers were part of the Philistine military machine. Even they were gripped by fear and trembling due to the unexpected defeat.
The earth quaked:The verse mentions that the earth itself quaked, emphasising the magnitude of the event. This natural phenomenon, likely triggered by God, further contributed to the chaos and terror experienced by the Philistines and their allies.
Significance and lessons:This verse highlights the power and faithfulness of God. Despite the Israelites’ inferior military position, God intervened and granted them victory. The trembling and the earthquake were manifestations of God’s presence and His active involvement in the affairs of His people.
Trusting in God:Jonathan’s boldness stemmed from his trust in God’s ability to save, irrespective of the circumstances. This event encourages believers to trust in God’s power and to step out in faith, even when the odds seem overwhelming.
God’s sovereignty:The trembling and the earthquake demonstrate God’s sovereignty over nature and His ability to control it for His purposes. It reminds us that nothing is beyond His control, and He can use natural elements to accomplish His will.
Fear of the Lord:Witnessing the trembling and the earthquake should have instilled a healthy fear of the Lord in the hearts of the people, including the Israelites. It serves as a reminder that God is mighty and worthy of reverence. The fear of the Lord prompts obedience and a desire to live according to His ways.
Encouragement in difficult times:This passage also encourages believers who face challenging circumstances. Just as God intervened on behalf of Jonathan and the Israelites, He can work in extraordinary ways in our lives when we rely on Him and step out in faith. Remember to read the surrounding verses and consult trusted commentaries or study resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.
