This verse from 1 Kings 20:22 is a warning and a call to action from a prophet of God to the king of Israel. Let's break it down:
"The prophet came near to the king of Israel...": A prophet, likely speaking on behalf of God, approached the king. This is significant because prophets were often seen as God's messengers, delivering important messages to leaders.
"...and said to him, “Go, strengthen yourself...": This is a direct command. The prophet is telling the king to prepare for war, both physically and strategically. "Strengthen yourself" can mean to gather resources, train soldiers, and fortify defenses.
"...and mark, and see what you do...": This is a warning to be careful and strategic in planning their next move. It's an instruction to observe the enemy, understand their tactics, and devise a counter-strategy. It encourages the king to be vigilant and proactive.
"...for at the return of the year the king of Syria will come up against you.”": This is the specific threat. The prophet reveals that the king of Syria will attack again within a year. This gives the king a timeframe to prepare. "At the return of the year" refers to the changing of the seasons, likely the next spring or summer, when military campaigns were typically launched.
In essence, the verse means:
God, through the prophet, is warning the king of Israel that the king of Syria will launch another attack within a year. The prophet is urging the king to use this time to prepare for war, strengthen his forces, and carefully plan his strategy. The message highlights the importance of being proactive and vigilant in the face of future threats.
This verse from 1 Kings 20:22 is a warning and a call to action from a prophet of God to the king of Israel. Let's break it down:
"The prophet came near to the king of Israel...": A prophet, likely speaking on behalf of God, approached the king. This is significant because prophets were often seen as God's messengers, delivering important messages to leaders.
"...and said to him, “Go, strengthen yourself...": This is a direct command. The prophet is telling the king to prepare for war, both physically and strategically. "Strengthen yourself" can mean to gather resources, train soldiers, and fortify defenses.
"...and mark, and see what you do...": This is a warning to be careful and strategic in planning their next move. It's an instruction to observe the enemy, understand their tactics, and devise a counter-strategy. It encourages the king to be vigilant and proactive.
"...for at the return of the year the king of Syria will come up against you.”": This is the specific threat. The prophet reveals that the king of Syria will attack again within a year. This gives the king a timeframe to prepare. "At the return of the year" refers to the changing of the seasons, likely the next spring or summer, when military campaigns were typically launched.
In essence, the verse means:
God, through the prophet, is warning the king of Israel that the king of Syria will launch another attack within a year. The prophet is urging the king to use this time to prepare for war, strengthen his forces, and carefully plan his strategy. The message highlights the importance of being proactive and vigilant in the face of future threats.