Meet the Kings | Truth in Bloom Series
Scripture Focus:
1 Kings 22:41–50 | 2 Chronicles 17–20
Reign: 872–848 BC (25 years, King of Judah)
Who Was Jehoshaphat?
Jehoshaphat was the son of Asa and the fourth king of Judah after the kingdom divided. From the beginning of his reign, he walked in the ways of David — not just politically, but spiritually. He sought the Lord, removed the high places, and sent teachers of the Law throughout Judah to instruct the people (2 Chron. 17:7–9). Because of this, the fear of the Lord fell on surrounding nations, and Judah experienced peace.
Jehoshaphat strengthened his kingdom, built fortified cities, and raised a powerful army. But his strength didn’t come from weapons — it came from worship. When enemies threatened Judah with a vast alliance, Jehoshaphat didn’t rush to battle plans. He called a fast. He gathered the people. And he prayed.
His words still echo with humility and power:
“We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (2 Chron. 20:12)
God responded. Without lifting a sword, Judah watched their enemies destroy one another, and the people returned to Jerusalem rejoicing with praise.
But Jehoshaphat wasn’t perfect. He formed questionable alliances — most notably with King Ahab and later Ahab’s son Ahaziah. These partnerships cost him, both in reputation and divine favor. Still, his heart remained loyal to the Lord.
Key Themes to Reflect On
1. Worship Is a Weapon
Jehoshaphat led his people to seek God first — and that posture led to victory.
• Reflection: When fear strikes, do I strategize first… or do I worship?
2. Teaching Truth Changes a Nation
He didn’t just remove idols; he filled Judah with the knowledge of God. Revival requires both cleansing and instruction.
• Reflection: Am I intentionally sowing truth into the places I’ve asked God to purify?
3. Even the Faithful Can Be Flawed
Jehoshaphat made poor alliances, but God still honored his overall devotion. Grace covered his mistakes.
• Reflection: Where have I partnered with something that looks helpful… but doesn’t align with God’s will?
Scriptures Worth Sitting With
• 2 Chronicles 17:3–6 – Jehoshaphat’s devotion and bold reforms
• 2 Chronicles 18 – His alliance with Ahab and the consequences
• 2 Chronicles 20:1–30 – The prayer, the battle, and the victory through worship
• 2 Chronicles 20:33 – A reminder that high places still remained, even as his heart was loyal
What We Often Miss
• Jehoshaphat prioritized education — sending out Levites and officials to teach the law. He wanted a people who knew God, not just obeyed rituals.
• His reign reminds us that fear is not a weakness if it leads to worship.
• God can win battles we never have to fight — but only when we surrender the outcome to Him.
Application & Reflection
• Where have I allowed fear to become my focus instead of God’s faithfulness?
• Am I raising up truth in my home, my community, my influence — or just removing what’s wrong?
• What would it look like for me to worship instead of worry in this season?
Up Next:
Ahaziah – The Son Who Followed His Parents’ Idolatry
Ahab’s son takes the throne of Israel — and his story is one of pride, injury, and unanswered prayers.
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