Lessons on Jehoshaphat (2)—The Importance of Knowing God’s Word - All The LORD is near Daily Devotionals for 2024

In the third year of his reign [Jehoshaphat] sent his leaders to teach in the cities of Judah. And with them he sent Levites and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests. So they taught in Judah, and had the Book of the Law of the Lord with them; they went throughout all the cities of Judah and taught the people.
2 Chronicles 17:7-9

Lessons on Jehoshaphat (2)—The Importance of Knowing God's Word
Jehoshaphat did not think that his faith was something personal and that he should not bother others with it. He did not think that doctrine was not important the moment there was unity in the country. No, what he found and understood in seeking the Lord, he also wanted all the people to know. He understood that their blessing, as people of God, depended upon keeping the commandments of the Lord. So he sent into all the cities of Judah his leaders, the Levites and priests, with the Book of the Law of the Lord to teach the people. There were official representatives of the king, giving authority to what was done, and there were those teaching with the Book of the Law of the Lord, their only authority for teaching.

There were profound results as the people understood the things of God and put them into practice: "The fear of the Lord fell on all the kingdoms of the lands that were around Judah" (2 Chr. 17:10). What is the best defense in spiritual warfare? It is the knowledge of the Word of God and putting it into practice! Quite interestingly, we do not read about great changes in the people, but rather with their enemies! They were afraid, and not only did they not attack them, but they gave presents as tribute. On top of that we also read that "Jehoshaphat became increasingly powerful" (17:12).

It does not take much to understand how important it is to be instructed in the whole counsel of God, and to walk in it. It produces its effect, that which is pleasing to God . We need to be instructed in the Word of God, and as we grow in knowledge and walk in it we are blessed and are kept from many evils.

Alexandre Leclerc