"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him." - 2 Chronicles 16:9
This word, spoken to the good King of Judah, Jehoshaphat, was in response to a lapse in faithfulness on his part.
Jehoshaphat had a heart for God and did everything in his power to turn his nation back to faith. But he had a blind spot; Jehoshaphat desperately wanted peace with Israel. It grieved him that Judah and Israel were enemies. Every time God had to criticize Jehoshaphat it was about this readiness on his part to compromise in order to have peace between Judah and Israel. When King Baasha of Israel attacked and blockaded all trade with Judah, instead of defending his country, standing up against Israel and trusting in the Lord, he made an alliance with the king of Syria, paying him off with the national treasure of Judah to get Baasha off his back. The prophet Hanani, who spoke the above reminder to Jehoshaphat concluded with these words: “You have done foolishly in this, for from now on you will have wars.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) Whenever you are tempted to compromise a faithful stand on God’s Word in order to avoid confrontation with people you care about, remember that He is actively looking for opportunities to show Himself strong on behalf of those who will trust and obey. It doesn’t mean that we go around picking fights with our loved ones who disagree with our commitment to Jesus or looking for conflict with governing authorities who hate God and His Word. But when it comes to a choice, we will stand on God’s Word and trust Him, no matter what comes, and we will trust in Him to keep His promises and fulfill His purpose on our behalf. Lord Jesus, You have placed me in this time and place for Your purpose. Help me to stand firmly on Your Word and trust in You. Keep my heart blameless before You. I know that You will keep Your promises. Amen! Pastor Dan Giles
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