Through many ups and downs in
the life of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, he emerged as one who was a good King.
In fact, he was described as one that had "set his heart on seeking
God." 2 Chronicles 19 tells the story that Jehoshaphat had returned safely
from battle to his palace in Jerusalem. His hardened heart was in the process
of turning toward God and the story continues with him going out again among
the people from Beersheba to the hill country of Ephraim and getting them to
turn back to the Lord, the God of their Fathers. Read what happens next:
2 Chronicles 19:5-7
5 He appointed judges in the land, in each of the
fortified cities of Judah. 6
He told them, “Consider
carefully what you do, because you are not judging for mere mortals but for the
LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict. 7 Now
let the fear of the LORD be on you. Judge carefully, for with the LORD our God
there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”
Many in biblical history and
current history have started a journey with the Lord, then turned away. The
happiness and excitement of one returning to his spiritual journey cannot be
duplicated. Jehoshaphat's first order of business was to go among the people of
two geographical areas and lead them back to the Lord, too. Think of your
spiritual journey, and your desire to turn others to God.
Jehoshaphat also appointed
judges in the land, and we have read his charge to them. Read verse 6 again as
you think and pray about the leaders of our country making decisions and
judgment, knowing that God was with them in every verdict.
Regardless
of our task, the fear of the Lord comes into play. Remembering that the Lord is
with us is our only way of success. With our God there is no injustice or
partiality or bribery. Think of ways this truth fits into the decisions in your
life.
In all things, may we seek God continually and know that he is with us throughout our lives. Devoted to him and following his guidance, we will never fail.
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