Read the Book

In the Old Testament, King Jehoshaphat became sole king of Judah when his father Asa died. Jehoshaphat was one of the few kings in a while who had wholeheartedly followed the God of Israel, like King David had done in years past. He did not worship the local gods like Baal, but stayed true to Yahweh. As a result, the nations around Judah feared and respected him.

I find it interesting that one of Jehoshaphat’s acts as king was to send out his officials, Levites, and priests to teach the Book of the Law to all of the people. It seems as if there was a lack of literacy in God’s Law in Judah at that time. Maybe that was due to the previous kings who did not fully follow God’s law. Maybe under the previous kings, Israel was so busy fighting the nations around them that they didn’t have time to listen and know God’s Word. Or perhaps the established practice was to rely on the priests and other authorities to know the law. Jehoshaphat may have been ushering in a new era by emphasizing that each person had a privilege and responsibility for following the law themselves.

Whatever the circumstances, the people and the nation as a whole was changed for the better by knowing God better. They became more prosperous.

I think we can take a lesson from Jehoshaphat and his plan to make God’s Law known in Judah. God blesses those who want to know him. Whether it comes as physical rest or peace in our minds and souls, seeking God’s Word and Law brings blessings to all of us.

Prayer: Father, as I seek you in your Word, bless my life with wisdom, knowledge and blessings that only come from knowing you.

For Today: Find a reading plan online and read his word daily. Even if it is hard to understand, the Lord will give you understanding through his Spirit in time.