Jehoshaphat’s kingdom enjoyed peace; his God made him secure on every side.

He built fortified cities throughout Judah, for the land was at rest and there was no war during those years; the Lord gave him peace.

All Judah was happy about the oath, because they made the vow with their whole heart. They willingly sought the Lord and he responded to them. He made them secure on every side.

He said to the people of Judah: “Let’s build these cities and fortify them with walls, towers, and barred gates. The land remains ours because we have followed the Lord our God and he has made us secure on all sides.” So they built the cities and prospered.