King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 19:13 Mean?

1 Chronicles 19:13 in the King James Version says “Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LOR...” — study this verse from 1 Chronicles chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do that which is good in his sight.”

1 Chronicles 19:13 · KJV

Context

11

And the rest of the people he delivered unto the hand of Abishai his brother, and they set themselves in array against the children of Ammon. Abishai: Heb. Abshai

12

And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me: but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will help thee.

13

Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do that which is good in his sight.

14

So Joab and the people that were with him drew nigh before the Syrians unto the battle; and they fled before him.

15

And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, they likewise fled before Abishai his brother, and entered into the city. Then Joab came to Jerusalem.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Theological Analysis: This passage falls within the section on Ammonite war - David's continued conquests. The Hebrew term מִלְחָמָה (milchamah) - war/battle is theologically significant here, pointing to God fights for His people. The Chronicler's narrative, while paralleling Samuel-Kings in places, offers a distinct theological perspective emphasizing temple worship, Levitical service, and covenant faithfulness.

Chronicles presents David not primarily as warrior-king but as worship organizer and temple planner. This verse contributes to that portrait by highlighting the spiritual dimensions of Israel's national life. The text demonstrates that true prosperity comes through proper worship and covenant obedience rather than merely military or political success.

Doctrinally, this passage teaches about God fights for His people. Cross-references throughout Chronicles connect David's reign to the broader redemptive narrative, showing how God's covenant promises advance through faithful human leadership while ultimately depending on divine grace and power. The messianic implications are profound: Spiritual warfare and Christ's triumph.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Background: This section describes events from David's reign (c. 1010-970 BCE) but was written centuries later during the Persian period (c. 450-400 BCE). The Chronicler's selectivity in retelling David's story serves his theological purposes—he omits David's sins (Bathsheba, Absalom's rebellion) while emphasizing David's worship reforms and temple preparations.

The historical setting of Ammonite war - David's continued conquests occurred during Israel's united monarchy, when the nation reached its territorial and political zenith. Archaeological evidence from this period shows significant building projects and administrative development. However, the Chronicler writes for a much smaller, struggling post-exilic community, using David's golden age to inspire hope for restoration.

Ancient Near Eastern parallels show that temple construction and royal sponsorship of worship were common across cultures. However, Israel's understanding of worship centered on covenant relationship with the one true God rather than manipulation of capricious deities. This theological distinctiveness shapes the Chronicler's presentation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse's emphasis on God fights for His people challenge or affirm your current spiritual priorities and practices?
  2. What does Spiritual warfare and Christ's triumph teach you about Jesus Christ and His redemptive work?
  3. In what practical ways can you apply the principles of covenant faithfulness and proper worship demonstrated in this passage?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְנִֽתְחַזְּקָה֙1 of 11

“Be of good courage”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

וְנִֽתְחַזְּקָה֙2 of 11

“Be of good courage”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

בְּעַד3 of 11
H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

עַמֵּ֔נוּ4 of 11

“for our people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וּבְעַ֖ד5 of 11
H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

עָרֵ֣י6 of 11

“and for the cities”

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

אֱלֹהֵ֑ינוּ7 of 11

“of our God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וַֽיהוָ֔ה8 of 11

“and let the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

הַטּ֥וֹב9 of 11

“that which is good”

H2896

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

בְּעֵינָ֖יו10 of 11

“in his sight”

H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

יַֽעֲשֶֽׂה׃11 of 11

“do”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 19:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Chronicles 19:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 27:14Nehemiah 4:142 Samuel 10:12Joshua 10:251 Corinthians 16:131 Samuel 4:9

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