John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 8. And they dwelt therein , etc.] From ages past, hitherto, since it was first given them, and they were put into the possession of it: and have built thee a sanctuary therein for thy name ; a temple for his worship, honour, and glory, and for him to dwell in; and is a reason why it might be hoped he would protect them, especially when they prayed to him: saying ; and he promised to hear and help them, as follows.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-13 - In all dangers, public or personal, our first business should be to seek help from God. Hence the advantage of days for national fastin and prayer. From the first to the last of our seeking the Lord, we mus approach him with humiliation for our sins, trusting only in his merc and power. Jehoshaphat acknowledges the sovereign dominion of the Divine Providence. Lord, exert it on our behalf. Whom should we see to, whom should we trust to for relief, but the God we have chosen an served. Those that use what they have for God, may comfortably hope he will secure it to them. Every true believer is a son of Abraham, friend of God; with such the everlasting covenant is established, to such every promise belongs. We are assured of God's love, by his dwelling in human nature in the person of the Saviour. Jehoshapha mentions the temple, as a token of God's favourable presence. He plead the injustice of his enemies. We may well appeal to God against thos that render us evil for good. Though he had a great army, he said, We have no might without thee; we rely upon thee.
Original Hebrew וישׁבו3427 בה ויבנו1129 לך בה מקדשׁ4720 לשׁמך8034 לאמר׃559
