111 When Rehobo'am came to Jerusalem, he assembled the house of Judah, and Benjamin, a hundred and eighty thousand chosen warriors, to fight against Israel, to restore the kingdom to Rehobo'am. 2 But the word of the Lord came to Shemai'ah the man of God: 3 "Say to Rehobo'am the son of Solomon king of Judah, and to all Israel in Judah and Benjamin, 4 'Thus says the Lord, You shall not go up or fight against your brethren. Return every man to his home, for this thing is from me.'" So they hearkened to the word of the Lord, and returned and did not go against Jerobo'am.
5 Rehobo'am dwelt in Jerusalem, and he built cities for defense in Judah. 6 He built Bethlehem, Etam, Teko'a, 7 Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, 8 Gath, Mare'shah, Ziph, 9 Adora'im, Lachish, Aze'kah, 10 Zorah, Ai'jalon, and Hebron, fortified cities which are in Judah and in Benjamin. 11 He made the fortresses strong, and put commanders in them, and stores of food, oil, and wine. 12 And he put shields and spears in all the cities, and made them very strong. So he held Judah and Benjamin.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 11:1-12
Commentary on 2 Chronicles 11:1-12
(Read 2 Chronicles 11:1-12)
A few good words might have prevented the rebellion of Rehoboam's subjects; but all the force of his kingdom cannot bring them back. And it is in vain to contend with the purpose of God, when it is made known to us. Even those who are destitute of true faith, will at times pay some regard to the word of God, and be kept by it from wrong actions, to which they are prone by nature.