“And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim; But sought to the LORD God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel. Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents; and he had riches and honour in abundance”- 2 Chronicles 17:3-5(KJV)
It takes commitment to be rewarded but it takes continuity to be enthroned. The bible said “..because he walked in the first ways of his father David” this connotes consistency and continuous action on the part of Jehoshaphat, consequently the bible says “Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand” this implies enthronement. Jehoshaphat exhibited the zeal of someone who is divinely guided. The bible says “… and sought not after Baalim” this in effect can mean that he was totally committed to God and relied completely on God and not after any other. The god of money, riches and wealth could not influence him. The immorality associated with baalim did not influence him, his entire being was focused on doing the commandment of the God of his father.
These were the testimony of the deeds of Jehoshaphat the king, sitting on the majestic stool of the king of Israel sought after God with all his heart. What a contradiction when compared to people in the dispensation of grace, who has everything made available to them but yet are unable to serve God even in their poverty. Even among Christians are those who on Sunday dress gorgeously to service, give wonderful testimonies, and even speak in tongues, but in the cover of darkness sneak into the dark hut of witch doctors to consult and seek protection. They serve God with their lips but their hearts are far from God. Jesus said that if a man’s eyes be single, his whole body will be full of light. Singleness of heart in serving God is the delight of the Almighty. Enthronement requires perseverance, endurance, resilience and consistency. We must begin to emulate biblical characters in running our Christian race. Jehoshaphat is a good character to study and emulate. His riches came because he honoured God in his life. He made God to come first in his dealings. No wonder Christ said in Matthew 6:33(KJV) “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”. It pays to be committed, to persevere and endure in our service to God, because that is our gateway to enthronement.
Prayer: Father, I pray that you bestow me with the spirit of commitment and consistency in enduring the cross for my ultimate enthronement.
Bro. Joel Ezeugo