Today’s Scripture: 2 Chronicles 17-20
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. – Colossians 2:6
When I was growing up on a farm in Iowa, we had a neighbor who, every time something unusual or exciting happened, would shout “Jumpin’ Jehoshaphat!” But a reading of 2 Chronicles 17-20 lets us know that Jehoshaphat was not known for his ability in jumping, but for his walk with God.
He wisely took precautions to fortify the land against invasion. But more than that, he walked in the ways of David, his father. And even here Jehoshaphat was selective, following the positive example of David while avoiding his weakness and sin. When King Jehoshaphat gave himself to the laws of God, the Bible says he put his heart in it. The New Testament describes this as fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.
Jehoshaphat tore down the place of false worship and then sent men throughout the cities of Judah to teach the people from the Book of the Law. In gratitude, the people sent him presents and he had riches and honor in abundance. But his heart was not lifted up in pride. He continued to walk humbly with God.
How often we read in Scripture that riches and honor prove to be a stumbling block, leading a person to pride, false security, and even immorality. But not this man. These things simply oiled the wheels of Jehoshaphat’s obedience.
It is so easy to approach the Christian life in a series of fits and starts and try to make progress in leaps and bounds. What is really needed is for us to walk calmly and steadily each day in the ways of the Lord.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for recording the example of King Jehoshaphat in his love for Your ways and his steady walk with You. Amen.
To Ponder
What is the first thing you would do if the Lord gave you a million dollars?
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