How can Jehoshaphat's example inspire us to lead with integrity and faith? Jehoshaphat’s reign at a glance (2 Chronicles 20:31) “So Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi.” • Every detail is God-breathed and historically true. • A quarter-century on the throne lets us watch long-term, godly leadership in action. Leading with integrity: what we see • Single-hearted loyalty (17:3-4) – “He sought the God of his father and walked in His commandments.” • Passion for Scripture (17:7-9) – Sent officials and Levites to teach the Law; integrity spreads the Word. • Righteous reforms (19:4-10) – Appointed judges and warned them, “You are not judging for man but for the LORD.” • Guarded partnerships (19:2) – Rebuked for aiding Ahab; integrity breaks with compromise. Practical cues – Let God’s Word set policies (Deuteronomy 17:18-20). – Place truth-loving people in key roles (2 Corinthians 8:21). – Refuse alliances that dull obedience (Psalm 1:1). Leading with faith: what we see • Reflex of prayer (20:3) – “Jehoshaphat was afraid and resolved to seek the LORD.” • Corporate dependence (20:4-13) – Gathered Judah to fast and confess, “Our eyes are upon You.” • Confidence in God’s word (20:20) – “Believe in the LORD your God, and you will be upheld.” • Praise before victory (20:21-22) – Choir led the march; worship unlocked deliverance. Practical cues – Pray first, plan second (Philippians 4:6-7). – Rally others to seek God together (Acts 1:14). – Trust promises over probabilities (Proverbs 3:5-6). – Sing while the battle still rages (Habakkuk 3:17-19). Putting it into practice today 1. Guard a devoted heart (2 Chron 19:9). 2. Saturate your circle with Scripture (Colossians 3:16). 3. Sever compromising ties (2 Corinthians 6:14). 4. Make seeking God your default (James 1:5). 5. Lead worshipfully—music and gratitude change atmospheres (Ephesians 5:19-20). Promises that steady leaders • “The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way.” (Psalm 37:23) • “Act, and the LORD will be with the good.” (2 Chron 19:11b) • “The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro throughout the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” (2 Chron 16:9) Follow Jehoshaphat’s trail: clean hands, trusting heart, unshakable confidence that God still fights for those who seek Him. |
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