1. Jehoshaphat's heart was devoted to God (1-6)

Jehoshaphat became king of Judah succeeding his father, Asa. Jehoshaphat's heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord. He did not seek the popular idols and he removed the high places and the Asherah poles from Judah. Jehoshaphat knew that God could not be substituted by elaborate man- made objects or rituals. When we have a great view of God, all other things become less and can no longer bind us.

2. The LORD established the kingdom (7-19)

Jehoshaphat spent a lot of resources fortifying Judah not only to protect itself, but to build up the most important resource, the people. He knew how to raise leaders, like 4-star generals to help lead the army. He also equipped and sent out officials, including Levites, to teach throughout the towns of Judah, bringing with them the Law of the LORD. These leaders and teachers were recognized by name. In these ways, God established Judah and the fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms of the lands surrounding Judah.


Application: Lord, you are worthy of our devotion and can establish every good gift and talent that you endowed us with for your kingdom glory.
One Word: A heart devoted to God.