John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 9. If when evil cometh upon us , etc.] Any calamity, as the sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine , God’s four sore judgments, if by “judgment” is meant wild beasts: we stand before this house ; in the court before the holy place, and holy of holies: and in thy presence, for thy name is in this house ; called upon in it, and it was called by his name, and in which he dwelt: and cry unto thee in our affliction ; as Solomon prayed at the dedication of it: then thou wilt hear and help ; as the Lord promised, (see 1 Kings 8:33,37 9:3).
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 אם518 תבוא935 עלינו5921 רעה7451 חרב2719 שׁפוט8196 ודבר1698 ורעב7458 נעמדה5975 לפני6440 הבית1004 הזה2088 ולפניך6440 כי3588 שׁמך8034 בבית1004 הזה2088 ונזעק2199 אליך413 מצרתנו6869 ותשׁמע8085 ותושׁיע׃3467
