What role does the fear of the Lord play in decision-making here? Seeing the Scene in Jehoshaphat’s Reform King Jehoshaphat sent judges throughout Judah and charged them to render every decision through one governing lens: the fear of the LORD. This was not a suggestion; it was the atmosphere in which justice had to breathe. The Key Text 2 Chronicles 19:10: “Whenever a dispute comes before you from your brothers who dwell in their cities—whether in bloodshed or matters of the law, commandments, statutes, or ordinances—you are to warn them, so that they will not incur guilt before the LORD and wrath will not come upon you and your brothers. Do this, and you will not incur guilt.” How the Fear of the Lord Directs Decision-Making • Establishes the true standard – God’s character defines right and wrong; every ruling must align with Him. • Instills accountability – Judges answer first to God, not to popular opinion, power, or profit. • Promotes impartiality – When the Judge above all judges is present, favoritism is unthinkable (2 Chron 19:7). • Cultivates humility – Awareness of God’s majesty keeps pride from hijacking verdicts (Micah 6:8). • Protects from guilt and wrath – Decisions made in holy reverence spare both leaders and people from divine discipline. • Inspires courageous warnings – The passage commands them to “warn”—speaking truth plainly because God is watching. Scripture Connections • Proverbs 1:7; 9:10—The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge. • Exodus 18:21—Moses appoints leaders who “fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness.” • Proverbs 16:6—“By the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.” • Ecclesiastes 12:13—“Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” • Isaiah 11:3—The Messiah “will delight in the fear of the LORD” and judge righteously. Practical Takeaways Today • Before big or small choices, consciously place yourself under God’s gaze. • Let Scripture—not feelings—set the boundaries of what is acceptable. • Refuse partiality; honor God’s image in every person affected by your choice. • Remember future accountability: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Where fear of the LORD grows, clarity and courage in decision-making follow. |
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