How can we emulate Jehoshaphat's "heart was devoted to the ways of the LORD"? A Heart Lifted to the LORD “His heart was devoted to the ways of the LORD; moreover, he removed the high places and Asherah poles from Judah.” 2 Chronicles 17:6 Seeing Jehoshaphat’s Example • Godward affection came first; reforms flowed out of relationship, not politics • Devotion was visible: idols torn down, teaching priests sent out (17:7-9) • Blessing followed: “The LORD established the kingdom in his hand” (17:5) Key Marks of a Devoted Heart • Wholehearted love for God – “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart…” Deuteronomy 6:5 • Eager obedience – “Be doers of the word” James 1:22 • Hatred of compromise – “Abstain from every form of evil” 1 Thessalonians 5:22 • Desire to spread truth – Jehoshaphat sent Levites to teach; believers now hold forth the word of life (Philippians 2:16) • Dependence on the Lord in crisis – 2 Chronicles 20:12: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” Practical Steps to Emulate Jehoshaphat 1. Cultivate daily awe of God by reading and meditating on His Word (Psalm 119:97) 2. Remove known idols—habits, relationships, entertainment—that dull spiritual appetite (Colossians 3:5) 3. Align choices with Scripture before opportunities arise; pre-decide to honor Christ (Daniel 1:8 pattern) 4. Gather with believers for mutual encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25) 5. Teach truth within your sphere—family, friends, church—so knowledge of God multiplies (2 Timothy 2:2) 6. Seek the Lord first when threats appear; pray, fast, and trust rather than scheme (2 Chronicles 20:3-4) 7. Keep a thankful record of God’s help to fuel future faith (Psalm 103:2) Guarding Against Compromise • Later alliance with Ahab brought rebuke (2 Chronicles 19:2) • Vigilance must continue; initial zeal can fade without watchfulness (Galatians 5:7) • Daily surrender and repentant humility protect the heart (Psalm 139:23-24) Promise for the Devoted “The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9 Walking in wholehearted devotion invites God’s strength, stability, and enduring fruit (John 15:5). |
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