Read 2 Chronicles 19:1-11
Jehoshaphat received the message loud and clear that the LORD was not pleased with him for his diversion in aiding King Ahab. What would you do if someone told you the LORD was angry with you? It appears Jehoshaphat’s next plan was to show his honor to God by establishing judges again to rule the people.
Jehoshaphat spent time setting the stage for this justice system by traveling among the people. He reminded them of their roots by “encouraging the people to return to the Lord, the God of their ancestors.” If the king is setting that kind of example, the people should pay attention, right?
Jehoshaphat instructed the judges on the expectations of their duties as well. Our own justice system could learn from these three tips. Let’s look at each one separately. First, Jehoshaphat said, “Remember that you do not judge to please people but to please the Lord.” In other words, don’t be a people pleaser. Don’t cave in to the pressures of society. Be clear on what the LORD desires and expects from his people. Being a judge means you probably won’t be popular but concern yourself only with pleasing God.
Next, Jehoshaphat gave them a little encouragement with these words. “He (God) will be with you when you render the verdict in each case.” What a relief! When we face making hard decisions, even unpopular ones, fear creeps in. Such peace comes from knowing that God will not abandon us during those times. But we can “know” something and still not trust it. Jehoshaphat told them God will be with them, so if they have any doubts, ask God. He’s waiting to help.
In case the judges took their appointment lightly, Jehoshaphat told them this. “Fear the Lord and judge with integrity, for the Lord our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality, or the taking of bribes.” This tells us that perverted justice has been around for centuries. It’s not a new thing to our generation.
Being a judge is serious business. Lives are forever changed by the decisions made. Jehoshaphat was hoping that the people he chose would heed these expectations.
Not only was Jehoshaphat concerned with laws of the people, but more so God’s laws. Special handling was required for matters of faithful obedience. If a judge was confronted with a “violation of God’s laws, commands, decrees, or regulations, you must warn them not to sin against the Lord, so that he will not be angry with you and them. Do this and you will not be guilty.” It sounds like the judge could be just as guilty as the wrongdoer if they let the offense go unpunished. That’s a lot of pressure!
I appreciated Jehoshaphat’s efforts here to bring unity and justice to the land. He knew that being obedient to the LORD was the key to a harmonious and successful kingdom. What do you think the world would look like today if people were judged by these kinds of judges?
Let’s pray. LORD, you are the only judge that matters to me. Pleasing you with my words and actions is what I strive for each day. I know I often fall short. Please accept my plea for forgiveness and grace. I acknowledge your greatness as the leader of my life. You have created the world and everything in it. I am in awe of you. Refresh my spirit today to serve you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
