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“And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel. And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim; But sought to the LORD God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel. Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, even to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to Michaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah. And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat. Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.” 

-2 Chronicles 17:1, 3-4, 7, 10-11 

   This is a fascinating passage of scripture. This past week I was studying for a sermon and read over these words. I had read them multiple times before and used the event as illustrations in various messages. It speaks of the king, early in his reign, holding to the faith demonstrated by David and applying it to his kingdom. He started cleaning the kingdom of ungodly images and restoring faithful practices throughout the cities. Many people when placed in a position can make promises but once the crown is placed on their head or an election has been won, they can become someone other than who they were. Jehoshaphat, in his early years, was determined to remain faithful to God and govern his people in truth.

   The most interesting part of the passage to me is the steps he took to strengthen his kingdom. Those in leadership can present great ideas to enhance their surroundings and better the condition of their people, but Jehoshaphat placed all other ideas behind the proclamation made in his third year as king. The well thought out plan and execution of sending his leadership to all the cities and teach the Word of God. He could have sent military strategists or great trainers to equip and prepare the people for attack and those were good ideas but the most important to him was get people in the Word of God. We all know this to be true but how easily we lose sight of it when trials come our way.

   Another thought was the impact this action had on the neighboring nations. It states that they were afraid of the Lord and would not attack Judah. Several even brought gifts to keep themselves from appearing to oppose Judah. How awesome and comforting this nugget is. If we would simply dive deeper into the Word of God, the things that gather around us God would handle. It’s not for us to be bigger, stronger or smarter than everyone else but to be surrendered to God and hold to His Word.

   As we enter a new year let us be reminded of that simple act of king Jehoshaphat. Get in the Word, let the Word get in us and let God do the miracle part. It is a light thing for Him to do the heavy lifting.

Happy New Year and God Bless!