In what ways can we apply Jehoshaphat's willingness to support others today? Setting the Scene 2 Kings 3:7: “The king of Moab has rebelled against me. Will you go with me to fight against Moab? … ‘I will go,’ replied Jehoshaphat. ‘I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses.’” Jehoshaphat’s Example in a Nutshell • Readiness to stand with a covenant partner (Israel) in a crisis • Willingness to risk resources—troops, horses, supplies • Spirit of unity expressed in the words “I am as you are” Principles We Can Live Out • Stand with God’s people when they face opposition – Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Offer tangible help, not mere words – 1 John 3:18: “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” • Count the cost yet choose obedience over comfort – Luke 9:23: “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” • Encourage unity across fellowships that honor Christ – Philippians 1:27: “Stand firm in one spirit, contending together for the faith of the gospel.” • Seek God’s counsel first, as Jehoshaphat did on other occasions (2 Chronicles 20:3–4) Practical Steps for Today 1. Identify a believer, ministry, or church under pressure; commit time, finances, or skills to lighten their load. 2. Join prayer efforts for persecuted Christians worldwide; back prayer with letters, advocacy, or material aid. 3. Share resources—vehicles, tools, professional expertise—when disasters or personal crises hit your community. 4. Partner with faithful missionaries: “My people as your people, my horses as your horses” can look like monthly support, short-term trips, or hosting them at home. 5. Build alliances between congregations for local outreach; unity strengthens witness and multiplies impact (John 17:21). Grounding Our Support in God’s Word • Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10: “Two are better than one… if either one falls, the other can help him up.” • Romans 12:13: “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Living out Jehoshaphat’s willingness means stepping toward needs, opening our hands, and declaring by our actions, “I am with you.” |
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