Remembering a Faithful King

Synopsis     1Kings 22:43-54     7/17/2019 

Jehoshaphat became the king of Judah after his father Asa died. And at Jehoshaphat’s death, the people remembered him as a faithful king – like his father had been.

Among his significant accomplishments was an end to the chronic wars between Judah and Israel. He reigned twenty-five years in Jerusalem before he died.

Similarly, Ahaziah reigned as king over Israel after the death Ahab, his father. However, he reigned for only two years.  

Remembering a Faithful King 

The people remembered Jehoshaphat for his fidelity. Specifically, they remembered him because he brought peace to the divided Israelite kingdom. Also, because he had faithfully followed the teachings of King Asa, his father.  

Remembering Faithfulness 

It is said that you can’t drive a car by looking in the review mirror. So, I think it’s similar with faithfulness. I can’t be faithful to the righteous vision of my fathers, or my God, by constantly asking myself if I’ve been faithful.  

No, it’s going to take the fearless determination to do as they did – not what they did. It’s going to mean meeting the challenges of the present moment with the fullness of determination to love and to hope without regard to selfish ambition or personal cost.  

“A good name is more desirable than great riches, and high esteem, than gold and silver.” Prov 22:1