From King Asa in 2 Chronicles, we learn what not to do because he had more faith in another person rather than God. The right choice is to always rely on God. God strengthens those that have faith in Him. Remember the little train that said, “I think I can”. With faith we can say, “I know I can”.
Many things in life are hard to understand but like turning on a light switch, we need to know that faith just works and all we have to do is simply turn it on and it will light our way. We must stay focused on the path and God’s promises to help make it through anything.
King Jehoshaphat renewed the ways of God to his kingdom. He initiated teaching programs to get his kingdom in alignment with what God wanted. His initiatives resulted in great power for his kingdom.
The lesson for us is to take initiative in learning and teaching the ways of God. When we do this, our society can gain momentum and strength. There is a great adventure in studying, growing, and praying because in helping ourselves, we in turn help others. Eventually there is a ripple effect that results in better families, neighborhoods, communities, states, and nations.
Another king gives us a lesson in how to not make decisions. Ahab had up to 400 prophets that he sought counsel so he could listen to the one’s that agreed with him but why did he seek council from them when in prayer, we are assured of the greatest counsel of all.
There is a difference between what we want and what the Lord has planned. We can study and put what we learn into practice with the help of the Holy Spirit. We can Look in the right direction, ask the right questions, ask the right people, and go to the Lord in prayer.
One prophet had the courage to go against the tide. From Micaiah we find someone with purpose and a desire to go forward under fire. He had the courage to take a black eye for God’s purposes. A weapon we have in our battles is prayer. We can take courage because God is with us and provides a great power to make happen what we thought was impossible if we obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In 2 Chronicles 19, Jehoshaphat reformed the system of justice as he appointed judges of integrity. Justice, fairness, consideration, and cooperation to shape societies of integrity for a future that reaches new heights. Like the part of a kite in the shape of a cross that holds the wings together, we are held together by the Cross which lifts us higher by the power of the Holy Spirit.
The next part of the travel will take me to 2 Chronicles 20-24. Over the next few weeks, I will be posting about the journey and will use the questions below to help focus on each passage.
2 Chronicles 20:1-13
What three things does Jehoshaphat do after receiving news of the new military threat? How do you react in times of crisis? Do you feel powerless in certain situations?
2 Chronicles 20:14-37
How does God speak to you? What do you do in response? Upon what (or whom) is your heart set?
2 Chronicles 21-22
What basic attitude does Jehoshaphat have which prompts the statement “some good is found in you” (v. 3)? What additional responsibility is given the judges in order to prevent the system from becoming sterile and legalistic (v. 10)? What is to be their attitude toward their job? What attitude do you have toward your work?
2 Chronicles 23
There is an alliance between the leaders of the religious community and the leaders of the military. What is the purpose of this coalition? What is to be the underlying principle for the reign of Joash (V. 16-17)?
2 Chronicles 24
What major project is carried out while Joash is king? What policy changes take place after the death of Jehoiada? How would you describe the character of Joash?
The above reading plan will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing! At this link: God’s Plan for Us, is a post about accepting God’s plan or reaffirming our “YES” for Christ.
Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.
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