2 Chronicles 12:7

And when the Lord saw that they humbled themselues, the word of the Lord came to Shemaiah, saying, They haue humbled themselues, therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliuerance, and my wrath shall not bee powred out vpon Ierusalem, by the hand of Shishak. 2 Chronicles 12:7 (KJV)

therefore

I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my wrath shall not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. 2 Chronicles 12:7 (KJV)

Historical Context: The verse is part of the account of King Rehoboam’s reign in Judah. After Solomon’s death Rehoboam became king of a divided kingdom, with the ten northern tribes forming the kingdom of Israel and the two southern tribes forming the kingdom of Judah. In this passage Rehoboam and the people of Judah faced the threat of invasion from Shishak, king of Egypt.

The Sin of Rehoboam: Prior to these events Rehoboam and the people of Judah had turned away from the Lord and followed false gods. Their disobedience brought God’s judgment through Shishak’s invasion.

Humbling Themselves: When confronted with the consequences of their sin the people of Judah recognized their wrongdoing and humbled themselves before the Lord. This humility involved acknowledging their sins and earnestly seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness.

God’s Response: Because of the people’s humble repentance the Lord spoke through the prophet Shemaiah, declaring that He would not completely destroy them but would grant them some deliverance from Shishak’s invasion, and that His wrath would not be poured out in its fullness on Jerusalem.

Lessons and Applications:

The Importance of Humility – The humility of Judah reminds us of the significance of humbling ourselves before God. When we recognize our sins, confess them, and seek forgiveness, God responds with mercy and grace.

Repentance and Restoration – The narrative highlights the principles of repentance and restoration. God is ready to forgive and restore those who genuinely turn back to Him, offering hope even when consequences for sin are present.

God’s Faithfulness – Despite the people’s disobedience God demonstrated His faithfulness by not abandoning them completely. He showed enduring love and willingness to extend mercy even in times of judgment.