2 Chronicles 17:1-19
We now return to Jehoshaphat, the godly king much spoken of already in the book of Kings. Remember that from the death of Solomon the Chronicles retrace the history of the kings of Judah, whilst the book of Kings deals mainly with the kings of Israel. Why then was the life of Jehoshaphat given so much coverage? Sadly, because it was directly connected with the lives of Ahab and Jehoram, kings of Israel! However our ch. 17 only has good things to say about this king. He strengthens himself (v. 1); he walks "in the first ways of his father David" . . .; he seeks the God of his fathers; he walks in His commandments; his heart is lifted up . . .; he removes the idols (vv. 1-6). Not only does he separate himself from evil things as did his father, Asa, but he establishes good things (vv. 7-11). Two inseparable aspects of the Christian life! (Romans 12:9; 1 Peter 3:11). Amongst the senior captains Amasiah had volunteered to serve the LORD, as a true Nazarite (Leviticus 6:2; see also 2 Corinthians 8:5). It is possible – and it is an appeal addressed to every believer – to be devoted to the Lord whilst at the same time faithfully doing your job or daily chores.