What can we learn about stewardship from Jehoshaphat's "many works" and "supplies"? The Verse in Focus “Jehoshaphat grew stronger and stronger, and he built fortresses and store cities in Judah. He had a large amount of supplies in the cities of Judah, and warriors—mighty men of valor—in Jerusalem.” Observations on Jehoshaphat’s Stewardship • Deliberate expansion: “built fortresses and store cities” shows intentional, organized development. • Abundant reserves: “large amount of supplies” indicates forethought for lean days or conflict. • Integrated planning: military strength was stationed “in Jerusalem,” the spiritual center, linking practical defense with worship life. • Prosperity tied to obedience: earlier (17:3-6) the king “sought the God of his father… and his heart took delight in the ways of the LORD,” underscoring that material blessing followed spiritual alignment. Principles We Can Apply Today • Foresight is faith in action – Proverbs 21:20: “Precious treasure and oil are in the dwelling of the wise…” – Wise stewards prepare before need arises, trusting God by planning, not by presumption. • Stewardship touches both resources and projects – Like Jehoshaphat’s “works” and “supplies,” our calling covers what we build (projects, ministries, businesses) and what we store (savings, emergency funds, charitable reserves). • Order reflects godly wisdom – 1 Corinthians 14:40 reminds that “all things” are to “be done in a proper and orderly manner.” Organized record-keeping, budgets, and maintenance honor the Lord. • Provision must serve people – Stockpiles were placed “in the cities of Judah,” where common citizens lived. Resources existed for community benefit, not royal indulgence (cf. Acts 4:34-35). • Strengthened borders protect witness – Fortresses ensured stability so the nation could continue worship and teaching without constant disruption (see 2 Chronicles 17:7-9). Protecting assets preserves ministry reach. • Faithfulness precedes fruitfulness – 1 Corinthians 4:2: “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Jehoshaphat’s loyalty to God opened the door for expanding influence and supply. Nurturing a Lifestyle of God-Honoring Stewardship • Evaluate present “works” and “supplies”: buildings, programs, accounts—are they aligned with Kingdom priorities? • Allocate margin: set aside resources for crisis, mission opportunities, and future generations (Genesis 41:48-49). • Cultivate competence: develop skills, systems, and teams as Jehoshaphat organized valiant men. • Keep spiritual focus central: like Jerusalem housed the warriors, center every plan around worship, Scripture, and dependence on the Spirit. • Review alliances: later, Jehoshaphat’s partnership with Ahaziah (20:35-37) squandered resources. Guard stewardship by choosing God-honoring collaborations. Final Takeaway Jehoshaphat’s “many works” and “supplies” reveal stewardship that is proactive, orderly, community-minded, and rooted in obedience. Following his pattern invites God’s blessing, safeguards our mission, and positions us to serve others faithfully. |
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