I Kings 22 and II Chronicles 17
From A Priest's Journal
Especially a leader.
Jehoshaphat, king of Judah not only had a heart devoted to God, but he also wanted the people living in Judah to live as God commanded. Of course the men and women saw his example. They needed more, though.
In the third year of Jehoshaphat's reign he sent his officials: Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Michaiah, also certain Levites: Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob-Adonijah with these priests: Elishama and Jehoram throughout the country.
Their job? Teach the Book of the Law of the Lord to all the people in every town of Judah.
In time all the countries around Judah became fearful of the Lord. They saw what the Lord did for Judah while Jehoshaphat's example drew the people close to God. Not one country threatened war against Judah during this time.
Some Philistines brought Jehoshaphat gifts including silver to show their respect for Jehoshaphat and Judah's dedication to God. Even the Arabs brought him flocks: seven thousand seven hundred rams, and seven thousand seven hundred goats.
Our king, Jehoshaphat became powerful. He used the gifts to build forts and store cities in Judah keeping large supplies in the towns of Judah. No one needed anything. He also paid for experienced fighting men in Jerusalem. Those who protected the king numbered one million, one hundred sixty thousand men!
One day, Ahab, the king of Israel, asked Jehoshaphat, "Will you go with me to fight against Ramoth Gilead?"
Jehoshaphat answered, "I am as you are, my people are your people, my horses are your horses. First, before I agree to help, you must ask God if we should."
Before I can continue this story, I need to tell you about Ahab, the king of Israel.
Ahab did not love God. He didn't worship Him. And ... wait, this is a big story to tell. Come back next time to read how God sent a starving prophet using a raven, and find out what happened to a king who listened the queen who did not love God.
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1. Jehoshaphat knew showing the people of Judah how to obey God was important, but not enough. What did Jehoshaphat do?
2. Jehoshaphat sent his officials, the __________, and the _______ to every town in Judah.
3. What were these men suppose to teach the people?
4. What happened to Judah while Jehoshaphat ruled?
5. Who brought Judah gifts?
6. Who asked Jehoshaphat to help him?
7. What did Jehoshaphat say Ahab had to do first?
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