How can Jotham's example inspire us to lead with integrity today? A Brief Snapshot of Jotham’s Reign “Jotham rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David. And his son Ahaz reigned in his place.” (2 Chronicles 27:9) Though verse 9 simply records Jotham’s peaceful passing, the earlier verses (vv. 1-8) explain why his reign ended on such a strong note: integrity. Jotham “did what was right in the eyes of the LORD” (v. 2) and “grew powerful because he ordered his ways before the LORD his God” (v. 6). His life offers a concise yet powerful template for leading well today. Core Traits of Jotham-Style Integrity • Consistent obedience – He followed the Lord “just as his father Uzziah had done, except he did not enter the temple of the LORD” (v. 2). Jotham avoided the pride that ruined Uzziah (cf. 2 Chron 26:16). • Clear moral boundaries – By refusing to overstep into priestly duties, he honored God-given limits. • Faithful stewardship – He fortified Jerusalem’s wall, rebuilt the Upper Gate of the temple, and constructed towns and watchtowers (vv. 3-4). Leadership meant building, not exploiting. • Courageous justice – He defeated the Ammonites, then held them to their tribute (v. 5), protecting his people without oppression. • God-centered ambition – “He ordered his ways before the LORD” (v. 6). His plans, motives, and methods were examined under God’s gaze. Scripture Adds Weight to the Pattern • Proverbs 10:9 – “He who walks in integrity walks securely.” • Psalm 15:1-2 – The one “who walks blamelessly and does what is right…will never be shaken.” • Luke 16:10 – “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • 1 Timothy 3:2 – Overseers must be “above reproach,” echoing Jotham’s example for modern leaders. • Micah 6:8 – “Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God”—Jotham’s résumé in one verse. Living Jotham’s Integrity Today – Start every decision with Scripture’s standard, not shifting opinion. – Honor God-given roles and limits; avoid grabbing authority that isn’t yours. – Build up the people and places under your care—invest, don’t merely consume. – Keep your word, even when enforcement is weak; God sees (Hebrews 4:13). – Let humility guard success. The higher the platform, the deeper the roots must grow. – Evaluate progress by faithfulness, not headline value; a quiet, steady reign like Jotham’s can still shape generations. A Lasting Legacy Jotham’s closing epitaph is short, yet it signals a life finished without scandal. Integrity allowed him to hand off a stable kingdom—something every parent, pastor, manager, or public servant longs to do. By ordering our ways before the Lord just as literally and trustingly, we can enjoy the same secure finish and leave a heritage worth passing on. |
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