In what ways can we apply Jotham's example to our daily lives? Jotham: A Brief Snapshot • 2 Kings 15:34-35 tells us, “He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD… Jotham built the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD.” • 2 Chronicles 27:2 notes, “He did what was right… except he did not enter the temple of the LORD. But the people still behaved corruptly.” • 2 Chronicles 27:6 adds, “So Jotham grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.” Choosing Faithfulness in an Unfaithful Culture • Jotham obeyed God even while “the people still behaved corruptly” (2 Chronicles 27:2). • Daily application: – Stay faithful to Scripture when cultural norms drift (Philippians 2:15). – Refuse compromise in speech, entertainment, business ethics. – Measure success by God’s approval, not popular opinion (Galatians 1:10). Letting Humility Guard Our Worship • Unlike his father Uzziah, Jotham never presumed on sacred things (2 Chronicles 27:2; cf. 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). • Daily application: – Approach worship with reverence; resist casual irreverence. – Serve in church without self-promotion (James 4:6). – Remember all gifts and opportunities come from God (1 Corinthians 4:7). Building for the Lord • “Jotham built the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD” (2 Kings 15:35). • The gate strengthened temple access and security—practical work that honored God. • Daily application: – Invest time, skill, and resources in ministries that open doors for others to meet Christ. – Maintain your own “spiritual infrastructure”: Bible reading, prayer, fellowship (Jude 20-21). – Use professional talents to reflect God’s excellence (Proverbs 22:29). Living Steadfastly, Growing Strong • “He walked steadfastly before the LORD… and grew powerful” (2 Chronicles 27:6). • Steadfast = consistent, day-by-day obedience (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Power followed practice; strength followed steadfastness. • Daily application: – Schedule regular spiritual disciplines; small habits forge strong character. – Expect God-given influence as a by-product, not the goal. – Stand firm when circumstances shift; God honors perseverance (Hebrews 10:36). Leading at Home and in Society • Jotham’s victories over Ammon benefited Judah economically (2 Chronicles 27:5). • He blended private devotion with public leadership. • Daily application: – Model integrity for family, coworkers, community. – Seek justice and peace in civic involvement (Micah 6:8). – View leadership as stewardship, serving rather than being served (Mark 10:45). Practical Takeaways for Today • Choose obedience even if those around you will not. • Guard humility; never treat holy things lightly. • Build tangible works that make worship and witness easier for others. • Cultivate consistent habits; spiritual strength accumulates over time. • Lead wherever God places you, aiming to bless those under your influence. |
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