| Barnes' Notes on the Bible They smote all the cities round about Gerar - The Philistines of these parts had, it is probable, accompanied Zerah in his expedition.
Clarke's Commentary on the BibleThere was - much spoil in them - These cities being on the rear of this vast army, they had laid up much forage in them; and to get this the Jews overthrew the whole.
Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleAnd they smote all the cities round about Gerar,.... The cities of the Philistines, who were auxiliaries and confederates with these Ethiopians, and colonies from them, according to Theodoret, and who says, about Eleutheropolis was a place, called, in his time, Geraron Saton: for the fear of the Lord came upon them; so that they had no power to defend themselves, and oppose the men of Judah: and they spoiled all the cities; of the goods and substance that were in them: for there was exceeding much spoil in them; great wealth and riches of one kind or another.
Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old TestamentThey also smote the tents of the herds of the wandering tribes of that district, and carried away many sheep and camels as booty.
Geneva Study BibleAnd they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the {g} fear of the LORD came upon them: and they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them. (g) The Lord had stricken them with fear.
Wesley's Notes 14:14 Smote the cities - because they had joined, with Zerah in this war.
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary14:1-15 Asa's piety, He strengthens his kingdom. - Asa aimed at pleasing God, and studied to approve himself to him. Happy those that walk by this rule, not to do that which is right in their own eyes, or in the eye of the world, but which is so in God's sight. We find by experience that it is good to seek the Lord; it gives us rest; while we pursue the world, we meet with nothing but vexation. Asa consulted with his people how to make a good use of the peace they enjoyed; and concluded with them that they must not be idle, nor secure. A formidable army of Ethiopians invaded Asa's kingdom. This evil came upon them, that their faith in God might be tried. Asa's prayer is short, but it is the real language of faith and expectation from God. When we go forth in God's name, we cannot but prosper, and all things work together for the good of those whom he favours. | 
