2 Chronicles 15:5

And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries.

2 Chronicles 15:5 (KJV)

Context

This verse comes from the prophet Azariah’s message to King Asa of Judah. Earlier, Asa had removed idols and foreign altars and urged the people to seek the Lord (2 Chronicles 14:2-5). That obedience brought peace and prosperity. Here, the prophet describes the troubled times before those reforms, when Israel was without the true God (2 Chronicles 15:3).

Meaning

The words “no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in” picture a land where travel was unsafe and daily life was disrupted. Highways were dangerous, and even country villages suffered from plundering. “Great vexations” means severe distress and turmoil that affected everyone. This was not just occasional trouble; it was constant and widespread. The phrase “all the inhabitants of the countries” shows that no one escaped the upheaval, and many villages were deserted because of the danger.

Biblical connections

The next verse (2 Chronicles 15:6) explains that nation was crushed by nation and city by city, for God troubled them with every kind of distress. This pattern appears throughout the Old Testament: when people turn away from God, they face hardship. The contrast with Asa’s later peace shows that obedience brings stability, while disobedience brings chaos. The biblical text presents these troubles as a consequence of the people’s turning away from God.

Application

This verse calls us to examine our own lives. When we neglect our relationship with God or give in to sin, we may experience inner turmoil and lack of peace. The remedy is the same as Asa’s: remove what dishonors God and seek Him wholeheartedly. Faithfulness to His Word brings true peace, even in difficult times. This passage encourages self-examination, prompting believers to consider areas that may need repentance and a renewed commitment to God.

Reflection

God’s desire is for His people to enjoy peace, but that peace comes through alignment with Him. As we face life’s challenges, we can trust that seeking God wholeheartedly leads to stability and rest for our souls. Amid life’s disturbances, genuine peace is found by trusting in God and aligning our lives with His principles.