1. Man's failure and God's faithfulness (20:31-21:11)

Jehoshaphat did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, and God blessed him with seven sons. He tried to take good care of them before his death. But he made a serious mistake. He made an alliance with Ahab's son, Ahaziah. His oldest son married the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. Under her influence, Jehoram had all his own brothers and many other princes killed. Then the people rebelled against Jehoram because he had forsaken God and led his people into idolatry. One woman's influence is so strong. But God had promised to maintain a lamp for David and his descendants forever. This was God's mercy, which ultimately climaxed in Jesus.

2. A letter from Elijah (12-20)

Elijah the prophet, who lived in northern Israel, wrote Jehoram a letter rebuking and warning him. But he did not repent. He finally died, just as the prophet had said. And no one regretted his passing.

Application: Lord, thank you for your faithfulness. Raise up women of good influence for our families and nation. Help me to hold onto your promise.
One Word: God kept his lamp burning