In what ways can we "grow stronger" in faith like Jehoshaphat? The Verse: 2 Chronicles 17:12 “Jehoshaphat grew stronger and stronger, and he built fortresses and store cities in Judah.” What “growing stronger” looks like Jehoshaphat’s expanding influence was the visible result of an inward, God–honoring faith. Strength in faith is never random; it springs from deliberate choices that the Lord blesses. Anchor your life in God’s Word • 2 Chronicles 17:3-4 notes that Jehoshaphat “sought the God of his father and walked in His commandments.” • He later commissioned teachers to carry “the Book of the Law of the LORD” throughout Judah (17:9). • Regular reading, memorizing, and obeying Scripture builds a sturdy inner framework. See also Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2-3; 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Practice immediate obedience • Jehoshaphat removed pagan high places and Asherah poles (17:6). • Exercising faith in small, daily decisions trains the heart to trust God when bigger tests come (Luke 16:10; John 14:21). Cultivate holy confidence, not self-confidence • When a vast coalition advanced against him, Jehoshaphat confessed, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (20:12). • Strength grows when dependence shifts from personal resources to God’s unlimited power (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Lead others toward worship • He appointed singers to praise the LORD ahead of the army (20:21-22). • Praising God before the answer comes feeds faith (Psalm 22:3; Hebrews 13:15). Fortify your environment • The king’s fortresses and store cities (17:12) illustrate wise preparation. • Build safeguards—accountability relationships, wholesome media habits, scheduled quiet time—to resist spiritual assault (Ephesians 6:10-18). Guard your alliances • Jehoshaphat’s partnership with Ahab nearly cost his life (18:28-34) and drew prophetic rebuke (19:2). • Faith is strengthened by fellowship with the godly and weakened by entanglement with the ungodly (Proverbs 13:20; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17). Respond humbly to correction • After Jehu’s rebuke, Jehoshaphat instituted more reforms, appointing judges who would rule “in the fear of the LORD” (19:4-11). • Receiving discipline increases resilience and maturity (Proverbs 12:1; Hebrews 12:11). Persist in seeking the Lord • The chronicler repeatedly states that Jehoshaphat “set his heart to seek God” (19:3). • Continual pursuit, not occasional spurts, develops enduring strength (Jeremiah 29:13; Philippians 3:12-14). |
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