(5) And in those times.--The "many days" cf. 2Chronicles 15:3; the times of national unfaithfulness.

There was no peace . . . came in.--(See Judges 5:6; Judges 5:11; Judges 6:11.)

But great vexations.--For great confusions (meh-moth). (See Deuteronomy 28:20, where meh-mah, "confusion" or "discomfiture," is foretold as a punishment of apostacy. Here the meaning seems to be tumults, as in Amos 3:9. "The countries" are the territories or provinces of Israel, as in 2Chronicles 34:33.

15:1-19 The people make a solemn covenant with God. - The work of complete reformation appeared so difficult, that Asa had not courage to attempt it, till assured of Divine assistance and acceptance. He and his people offered sacrifices to God; thanksgiving for the favours they had received, and supplication for further favours. Prayers and praises are now our spiritual sacrifices. The people, of their own will, covenanted to seek the Lord, each for himself, with earnestness. What is religion but seeking God, inquiring after him, applying to him upon all occasions? We make nothing of our religion, if we do not make heart-work of it; God will have all the heart, or none. Our devotedness to God our Saviour, should be avowed and shown in the most solemn and public manner. What is done in hypocrisy is a mere drudgery.And in those times there was no peace to him that went out nor to him that came in,.... There was no safety in going abroad for travellers from one part to another on account of trade and business, the highways being infested with thieves and robbers:

but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries; of the country villages, which were deserted, because of the plunders and depredations of them, Judges 5:6.