The Chronicler gives us some additional insights into the life and leadership of Jehoshaphat son of Asa. “The Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because … he did not seek the Baals, but sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments” (II Chronicles 17:4). “His heart was courageous in the ways of the Lord” (17:6), as exemplified in his removal of all the high places and shrines to Baal and Asherah (17:6).

Just as Jehoshaphat demonstrated his insistence that God’s people must offer their worship only to the Lord, so also his piety included a strong sense of the importance of equal justice for one and all. He appointed judges across the land once again, to hear disputed cases (II Chronicles 19:5). He gave them this solemn charge: “Consider what you are doing, for you judge not on behalf of human beings, but on the Lord’s behalf; he is with you in giving judgment. Now, let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take care what you do, for there is no perversion of justice with the Lord our God, or partiality, or taking of bribes” (19:6-7).

While these judges were hearing civil cases, the priests and Levites would have responsibility regarding religious cases (19:8): “whenever a case comes to you from your kindred who live in their cities, concerning bloodshed, law or commandment, statutes or ordinances, then you shall instruct them, so that they may not incur guilt before the Lord and wrath may not come upon you and your kindred” (19:10).

These jobs would not be easy, because – then as now – people in a dispute want to get their own way and they are often reluctant to learn. So Jehoshaphat admonished his appointed officers: “Deal courageously, and may the Lord be with the good!” (19:11).

* * * * *

You appoint us to help people discern right from wrong, O Lord, and to teach them well so that they can do better: but often we are afraid to speak up to turn people away from incurring guilt before you. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, that we fail not them nor thee!

If you find these studies helpful, please Like, Subscribe, Comment, and Share. Thanks!