In what ways can we ensure the Lord is "with" us like Jehoshaphat? Scripture Focus “Now the LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the earlier ways of his father David. He did not seek out the Baals, but he sought the God of his father and walked by His commandments rather than the practices of Israel.” (2 Chronicles 17:3-4) What Marked Jehoshaphat’s Life • Rejected all idolatry • Pursued the God of his fathers with a whole heart • Obeyed God’s commandments rather than cultural pressures • Strengthened Judah spiritually before he strengthened it militarily (vv. 7-9) • Trusted prophetic counsel (19:5-7) • Maintained humility even when victorious (20:12) Ways We Can Ensure the Lord Is with Us • Wholehearted Seeking – Set the Lord alone as the object of worship (Matthew 4:10). – Guard affections from modern idols—money, status, entertainment (1 John 5:21). • Consistent Obedience – Align choices with God’s revealed will (John 14:21). – Practice quick repentance when convicted by the Spirit (Proverbs 28:13). • Saturation in Scripture – Let God’s Word shape thinking and decisions (Psalm 1:2-3). – Teach and encourage others, as Jehoshaphat sent officials to instruct Judah (2 Chron 17:7-9). • Dependence on Prayer – Approach battles first on your knees (2 Chron 20:3-4). – Pray with expectancy, acknowledging God’s sovereignty (Philippians 4:6-7). • God-Centered Alliances – Choose companions and partnerships that honor the Lord (2 Corinthians 6:14-15). – Learn from Jehoshaphat’s later mistake of allying with Ahab (2 Chron 18:1; 19:2). • Humble Reliance – Recognize victories as the Lord’s, not personal achievement (2 Chron 20:15). – Credit God publicly for successes (Psalm 115:1). Practical Daily Steps • Begin each day with Bible reading and surrender. • Memorize one verse weekly to renew the mind. • Schedule regular fasts to realign the heart. • Tithe and give generously, declaring trust in God’s provision (Malachi 3:10). • Serve in the local church, exercising gifts for the body’s good (1 Peter 4:10). • Keep short accounts—apologize and forgive quickly (Ephesians 4:32). Promises God Attaches to Obedience • “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) • “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20b) • “If you walk in My statutes…I will walk among you and be your God.” (Leviticus 26:3, 12) Warning Against Compromise Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahab showed that even a faithful believer can blur lines. Compromise dilutes witness and invites discipline (2 Chron 19:2). Stay vigilant. Summary Encouragement Like Jehoshaphat, honor the Lord above all, obey His Word, depend in prayer, and resist alliances that draw the heart away. Such a life carries the unfailing promise: “The LORD was with Jehoshaphat”—and He will be with you. |
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