2 Chronicles 16-

In 2 Chronicles 17:10 we are told that God placed fear of Israel in all the
surrounding nations. Why? We see the reason in verses 7-9; the king sent out leaders to teach the people the God's revelation. I think there is more to the reason of God's protection than the acts of obedience by the king. I believe we can say that those leaders believed and lived what they taught the people. The tested doesn't state that but that fits in line with God's nature. If we continue that same train of thought; it also make sense that God would not extend his protection over Jehoshaphat's kingdom if the people being taught did not respond to God's word why would God extend his protection over them? The same principle applies to Christians today. Can we expect God's protection from evil if we claim to have faith but reject his commands? Grace will keep us close to God in spite of our ignorant disobedience. It will preserve us while we learn and grow. But do we want to test God by our stubborn refusal to act as he's convicted us? I know I should not.
Stuart