2 Chronicles 16 - 20

Jehoshaphat

Jehoshaphat was one of the more renown kings of Judah.  He obeyed the Lord a removed the Asherah poles and pagan shrines.  He sent out a team of men to the cities with the Torah to teach the people the ways of the Lord.  This cause the fear of the Lord to come upon the people and restored their faith and respect in the God of Israel.  Because of the Lord's presence in Judah, kings and tribes in the surrounding countries were hesitant to attack Judah and some, the Philistines and Aram brought tribute to Jehoshaphat.  His kingdom grew strong militarily and materially.

Jehoshaphat was not perfect.  He made a pact with evil Ahab, the king of Israel, and even had one of his sons marry a daughter of Ahab.  Ahab was emboldened by his alliance with Jehoshaphat and decided to attack Ramoth-gilead. He brought 400 prophets to a conference between him and Jehoshaphat, but Jehoshaphat was not satisfied and insisted Ahab consult another prophet.  Jehoshaphat was spiritual enough to realize that the prophets of Ahab were little more than hired sycophants willing to compromise the Word of God for a paycheck.  Micah, son of Imlah, a true prophet came forth and told Ahab to go ahead and fight Ramoth-gilead but that it would cost Ahab his life.  This prophecy proved to be true.

Jehoshaphat was rebuked by the prophets in Judah when he returned. But Jehoshaphat repented and remained humble and trusting of the Lord.  This humility and faith in God allowed him to see God defeat a large Army from Edom.  In spite of his good standing with God, even at the end of his life he made another pact with the wicked king of Israel, Ahaziah.

We as Christian believers need to be careful of similar actions and attitudes.  God is not interested in our being "convenience Christians" willing to profess the faith when it is to our benefit or when we have a great need, but not willing to live for Him all day, every day, irrespective of the circumstances.  Only a total dedication to the word of God will suffice.

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.