A FATHER TO FOLLOW

A FATHER TO FOLLOW

READ:

2 Chronicles 17:1-10

[Jehoshaphat] sought the God

of his father, and walked in His

commandments. -2 Chronicles 17:4

When I think of my father, I think of this saying:  “He didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and he let me watch him do it.”  During my youth, I watched my dad walk with God.  He participated in Sunday morning church services, taught an adult Bible-study class, helped with counting the offering, and served as a deacon.  Outside of church, he faithfully defended the gospel and read his Bible.  I saw him express his love for the Lord through outward actions.

Asa, king of Judah, modeled devotion to God for a season in his life (2 Chronicle 14:2).  He removed the idols from his kingdom, restored the altar of the Lord, and led the people into a covenant with God (15:8-12).  Asa’s son Jehoshaphat carried on this legacy by seeking “the God of his father and walk[ing] in His commandments” (17:4).  Jehoshaphat purged the land of idol worship (v.6) and sent out priests and Levites to teach God’s law in all of the cities of Judah (vv.7-9).

Jehoshaphat’s reign resembled that of his father; he faithfully honored Asa’s godly example.  Yet even more important, Jehoshaphat’s “heart took delight in the ways of the LORD” (v.6).  Today, if you’re looking for a father to follow, remember your heavenly Father and take delight in His ways. –Jennifer Benson Schuldt

We magnify our Father God

With songs of thoughtful praise;

As grateful children we confess

How perfect are His ways. –Ball

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We honor God’s name when we call Him our father

And live like His son.

INSIGHT

Jehoshaphat is a remarkable example of a spiritual reformer with personal integrity.  Today’s reading records how he followed the example of David’s obedience (v.3); sought God and walked in His commandments (v.4); removed sites of pagan worship (v.6); and even sent out leaders to teach the Law of the Lord (vv.7-10).  The Lord rewarded Jehoshaphat for his obedience.

Have a blessed night and weekend.

God Our Creator’s Love Always

Unity & Peace