What role does godly mentorship play in maintaining righteousness, as seen in Joash's reign? The Snapshot of Joash’s Early Reign “Joash did what was right in the sight of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest.” (2 Chronicles 24:2) – Joash’s righteousness is directly tied to the lifespan and guidance of Jehoiada. – Scripture measures Joash’s faithfulness not by his own resolve alone but by the presence of his mentor. Jehoiada’s Influence: A Mentor’s Hand – Protection: Jehoiada hid the infant Joash from Athaliah’s slaughter (2 Chronicles 22:10–12). – Covenant renewal: He led Judah back to the covenant, tearing down Baal’s temple (2 Chronicles 23:16–17). – Vision casting: He organized temple repairs, inspiring Joash to prioritize worship (2 Chronicles 24:4–13). – Spiritual covering: While Jehoiada lived, Joash listened to godly counsel; when he died, Joash turned to idolatry and even murdered Jehoiada’s son (2 Chronicles 24:17–22). Principles Drawn from Joash’s Story • Godly mentorship sustains righteousness—left to himself, Joash drifted. • Mentors provide both protection and accountability. • Righteousness flourishes in community; isolation breeds compromise. • Ending well often depends on finishing the race with wise guides, not merely starting strong. Supporting Scripture for Godly Mentorship – Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” – Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – 2 Timothy 2:2: Paul urges Timothy to pass truth to “faithful men who will be competent to teach others also.” – Hebrews 13:7: “Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” – Titus 2:3–8: Older believers instructed to train the younger in sound doctrine and godly living. Living It Out Today – Seek seasoned believers who model faithfulness; invite their counsel. – Stay under authority that champions Scripture; resist drifting into self-reliance. – Prioritize multi-generational fellowship—allow younger hearts to be shaped by proven saints. – Cultivate intentional discipleship chains: be mentored and become a mentor, so righteousness persists beyond a single lifetime. |
    |