2 Chronicles 17:18 (KJV) "And next him was Jehozabad, and with him an hundred and fourscore thousand ready prepared for the war."

This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of 2 Chronicles that chronicles the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah. In this chapter, Jehoshaphat is praised for his faithfulness to God and for his efforts to promote the worship of the Lord throughout his kingdom. This verse in particular focuses on the military preparedness of Jehoshaphat's kingdom, specifically highlighting the dedication of one of his military commanders, Jehozabad, and the large army he had at his disposal.

One of the key themes in this verse is the importance of military readiness and preparedness. In ancient times, a king's strength and security rested heavily on the size and strength of his army. By highlighting Jehozabad and his 180,000 soldiers, the verse emphasizes Jehoshaphat's commitment to maintaining a strong and powerful military force to protect his kingdom from external threats. This emphasis on military strength reflects the geopolitical realities of ancient Israel and demonstrates the importance of being prepared for war in order to ensure the safety and security of the kingdom.

Furthermore, 2 Chronicles 17:18 also highlights the concept of loyalty and dedication. The fact that Jehozabad had such a vast army ready for war demonstrates his commitment to serving and defending his king and his kingdom. This loyalty and dedication to the king's cause were crucial in maintaining a strong and united kingdom, as it ensured that the military leaders and their soldiers were fully invested in the defense and protection of the kingdom.

From a symbolic perspective, the mention of Jehozabad and his army can also be seen as a representation of the broader theme of faithfulness and trust in God. Throughout the book of 2 Chronicles, Jehoshaphat is portrayed as a king who seeks to honor and serve the Lord, and as a result, he experiences God's favor and protection. The military preparedness mentioned in this verse can be seen as a physical manifestation of Jehoshaphat's trust in God's protection, as he takes practical steps to ensure the safety and security of his kingdom while also putting his faith in God to ultimately deliver them from their enemies.

In the broader context of the book of 2 Chronicles, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and dedication, both in military matters and in spiritual matters. It also emphasizes the significance of being prepared and proactive in the face of challenges and threats, while also maintaining trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and protection.

In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 17:18 offers a glimpse into the military strength and preparedness of King Jehoshaphat's kingdom, highlighting the importance of loyalty, dedication, and faithfulness in both military and spiritual matters. This verse underscores the significance of being prepared for war while also placing trust in God's ultimate protection and deliverance. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the practical steps that can be taken to ensure the safety and security of God's people.