Scripture:
I Kings 22: 4; 41 – 44
But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the LORD.” Jehoshaphat son of Asa became king of Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel. Jehoshaphat 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. In everything he walked in the ways of his father Asa and did not stray from them; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. The high places, however, were not removed, and the people continued to offer sacrifices and burn incense there. Jehoshaphat was also at peace with the king of Israel.
Observation:
Jehoshaphat possessed a great heart to follow God and to give Godly advice. In this passage we find him telling the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the Lord.” This was obviously more than advise but how he lived his own life. When Jehoshaphat became king himself, seeking the counsel of the Lord, was how he ordered his life. The scripture tells us that in everyway he walked in the ways of his father Asa and did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. However the people continued to worship false Gods.
Application:
It is a reminder to us that we are to do what is right, even if none follow – even if none applaud our efforts of understand why we do what we do. We do what is right for the Lord. And nothing feels as good as obedience. The old song: “ I have decided to follow Jesus,” comes to mind and especially the line, “though none go with me, still I will follow…all the way.” The best way to live is to seek the counsel of the Lord.
I can best do this by: gaining the principles from His word, seeking out those who know God and have a proven life of following Him, and living in the confines of his providential and moral will. Someone has said it is easier to do difficult things when others encourage you and I agree. But if no one goes with you, encourages you in doing what is right – you go anyways.
Prayer:
Lord and God, Jehoshaphat speaks to my heart today. It is as I can hear him say: “Give wise counsel – live wise counsel.” I am also reminded of the principle of, doing what is right for you and because of you, regardless of reward, affirmation or partnership. Give me the courage to do what is right. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
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