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“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9a (NIV)

I have to admit, I have been totally taken by it. Maybe it’s the stories of valor; of storming the enemy confident in God who assures the victory. Perhaps it’s the justice; the integrity of God who means what He says and says and what He means. Then again, I suspect it’s the hope; that God will deliver, restore and bless His people for those who run after Him with their whole heart.

For whatever reasons, I have been captivated by 2 Chronicles for a while now. As if about to burst if I don’t begin to write of it, I know that this is only the beginning. The treasures in these words are waiting and I must examine.

This book chronicles the events of the kings that spanned from the ever-so wise Solomon to the ever-so evil Zedekiah. Before one gets lulled by yet another endless reference to genealogies, each account lists additional information. Of relevance becomes the inclusion of Levites, law and sacrifice in one’s kingdom. Of importance is the taking down of foreign altars, high places, sacred stones, Asherah poles and incense altars, all of which were used to worship evil and lying gods. Turning one’s heart towards the Lord and living according to His precepts equated to securing His strength in battle and prosperity in acquisitions. This brings us to Jehoshaphat.

Jehoshaphat had an upbringing that most would envy. He learned to walk in the ways of the Lord from an early age. As king, he appointed men to sing and praise the Lord for His holiness. Jehoshaphat’s Judah became powerful, wealthy and favored by God. Then in 2 Chronicles 20:33, after all the successes and victories while serving the Lord, truth emerged and judgment followed. “The high places were not removed, and the people still had not set their hearts on the God of their fathers.” (NIV) High places, the areas of one’s heart not surrendered to the King of Kings and in so keeping, one becomes vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks. Jehoshaphat would align himself with Ahaziah king of Israel, a wicked king. Destruction proved eminent. All that remains is a well written manuscript to teach and instruct the children of God.

“Father, after my devotion, seeking and service, have I left any high places in place? Holy Spirit, reveal and convict my heart, give me strength to repent and correct, so that I may be totally Yours.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life