18 In fact, they went into battle so concerned about the sacred temple, that they gave no thought to their own families.
19 Meanwhile, the people of Jerusalem were anxious and worried about those who had left to fight in the countryside.
20 Everyone was waiting to see who would win the battle. The enemy troops had lined up and were moving forward, protected on both sides by cavalry. They also had elephants stationed in places where they could help the most.
21 As Judas watched this huge enemy army advance, he looked carefully at the different kinds of weapons and the savage elephants. Then he stretched his arms toward heaven and prayed to the Lord who works miracles, because he knew that the Lord gives victory to those who deserve it, and not to those who have a lot of swords and armor.
22 This is what he prayed:Lord of Heaven, when Hezekiah was king of Judea, you sent an angel who killed 185,000 troops that belonged to King Sennacherib.
23 Now please send a good angel to make our enemies tremble with fear.
24 Then use your mighty arm to destroy those who have cursed you and attacked your holy people.