Topical Encyclopedia Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, reigned as the fourth king of Judah, succeeding his father around 873 BC. His reign is noted for its prosperity and religious reforms, which were deeply rooted in his commitment to the ways of the Lord. Jehoshaphat's prosperity is attributed to his faithfulness and the divine favor he received as a result.Religious Reforms and Devotion to God Jehoshaphat's prosperity began with his dedication to the spiritual welfare of his kingdom. He sought to strengthen the religious foundation laid by his father Asa. Jehoshaphat "walked in the ways of his father David" and "did not seek the Baals" (2 Chronicles 17:3-4). His commitment to God was evident in his efforts to rid the land of idolatry and to educate the people in the Law of the Lord. He sent officials, along with Levites and priests, throughout the cities of Judah to teach the people, ensuring that the knowledge of God's laws was widespread (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). Military and Economic Strength Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by significant military and economic strength. The Lord established his kingdom, and "all Judah brought him tribute, so that he had great wealth and honor" (2 Chronicles 17:5). His military might was formidable, with a well-organized army that included mighty men of valor. The chronicler records that Jehoshaphat had over a million men ready for battle, a testament to the kingdom's strength and security (2 Chronicles 17:12-19). Alliances and Political Influence Jehoshaphat's prosperity extended to his political influence, as he formed alliances with neighboring kingdoms. His most notable alliance was with Ahab, king of Israel, through the marriage of his son Jehoram to Ahab's daughter Athaliah. While this alliance brought temporary peace and cooperation, it also introduced challenges, as Ahab's idolatrous practices conflicted with Jehoshaphat's devotion to God. Despite these challenges, Jehoshaphat's influence remained strong, and he was respected by surrounding nations. Divine Favor and Protection Jehoshaphat's prosperity was undergirded by divine favor and protection. When faced with a vast coalition of enemies, Jehoshaphat sought the Lord in prayer and fasting. God responded by assuring him of victory without the need for battle. The Lord set ambushes against the enemies, leading to their defeat (2 Chronicles 20:1-24). This miraculous deliverance further solidified Jehoshaphat's reputation as a king blessed by God. Conclusion Jehoshaphat's reign is a testament to the prosperity that comes from faithfulness to God. His commitment to religious reform, military strength, and political alliances contributed to a period of peace and prosperity in Judah. Jehoshaphat's account serves as a reminder of the blessings that accompany devotion to the Lord and the importance of seeking His guidance in all endeavors. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:45,48Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, and his might that he showed, and how he warred, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? Nave's Topical Index Library Jehoshaphat's Reform Jehoshaphat The Divided Kingdom. Chronicles The Earlier Hebrew Histories. National Apostasy The Story of Prophets and Kings The Historical Books. Ahab and Naboth Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men Resources Who was Micaiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophets are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Ahaziah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Jehoshaphat Jehoshaphat: A Priest Who Assisted in Bringing the Ark of the Covenant from Obed-Edom Jehoshaphat: A Valley: Called the Valley of Decision Jehoshaphat: Joins Jehoram, King of Israel, in an Invasion of the Land of Moab, Defeats the Moabites Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Bequests of, to his Children Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Builds Ships for Commerce With Tarshish, Ships are Destroyed Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Death of Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: His Military Forces and Armaments Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: His System of Taxation Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: His Wise Reign Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Inaugurates a System of Public Instruction in the Law Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Joins Ahab in an Invasion of Ramoth-Gilead Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Makes Valuable Gifts to the Temple Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Prosperity of Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Rebuked by the Prophet Jehu Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Religious Zeal of Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Strengthens Himself Against Israel Jehoshaphat: King of Judah: Succeeds Asa Jehoshaphat: One of Solomon's Commissariat officers Jehoshaphat: The Allied Forces of the Amorites, Moabites Related Terms |
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