21/05/2017 - CONFIRMING THE KINGDOM

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Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah gave presents to Jehoshaphat, and he had riches and honor in abundance. 2 Chronicles 17:5

The lessons concerning Jehoshaphat’s life will show us some famous points. This king, son of Asa, died because he did not seek the Lord, but instead the doctors, when his feet became infirm. In the Holy Scriptures, we will learn very precious lessons that the Holy Spirit will reveal and allow us to know and by so doing, we will love God even more. 

As soon as he ascended to the throne as King of Judah, Jehoshaphat fortified his positions against the Northern Kingdom that had been separated from the House of David all the while having preferred Baal over Jehovah and incessantly provoked God’s people. The Most High was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the former ways of his father David (2 Chronicles 17:3), and tried to follow the example of the great Israelite king. We mention David’s first steps to underline that with Jehoshaphat there was no Bath Sheba.

Jehoshaphat understood that he had to strengthen the cities of Judah (v.2). This teaches us we must seek in the Word, God’s directions to strengthen all the areas in our own lives – our minds, our desires, aspirations and dreams of being somebody or having things – so as not to be delinquent.  

A fact worthy of notice in Jehoshaphat’s life was that he sought for the God of David and walked in His commandments. However, today we do not have to seek the God of David, Jacob or Abraham. Being their God, the Lord was limited to what his people understood of his Word. Ever since the revelation was completed, we seek the God of our Lord Jesus and serve Him. Jehoshaphat did not walk on the works of Israel, to his own good, and the same will happen to anyone who acts in this same way. 

The Most High confirmed the kingdom in his hands and Revelations 5:10 says that Jesus made us to be kings and priests. He must confirm both our ministries which will happen when we observe His commandments. All of Judah brought gifts to Jehoshaphat and when God confirms us, all of our brothers will honor us with presents. They will intercede with prayers and pleas in our favor. Just as this king had abundant glories and riches, we will be rich in revelations.

Jehoshaphat’s heart rejoiced for being able to serve God. He also removed obstacles from the paths of his people. The king took pleasure in reading and examining the Scriptures and praying until he was satisfied that his prayers had been heard; this gave him tremendous experiences with the Lord. The same will happen to us if we meditate on the Word, pray with all our heart and believe we will always be heard and answered if we do all of this in the Name of Jesus.

In the following readings we will learn more with the reports of this king that knew how to serve God and nothing that was wrong or bad ever happened to him as long as he was vigilant, kept watch and prayed constantly. It is essential that we watch out because the Lord’s testimonies are like inheritances that He gives us and within these revelations there is all the power that we need to be successful in our lives. Halleluiah!

In Christ, with love,

R.R.Soares