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Seeking God’s Presence

Written by ronda on . Posted in Phoebe Connections.

2 Chronicles 17:3-5

 Now the LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the former ways of his father David. He did not seek the Baals but sought the God of his father and walked by His commands, not according to the practices of Israel. So the LORD established the kingdom in his hand. Then all Judah brought him tribute, and he had riches and honor in abundance.

Jehoshaphat was king of Judah at the same time Ahab was king of Israel. Ahab was very impressed with the prosperity of the Sidonians, who worshiped Baal. As a result, he married the wicked daughter of the king of Sidon and established Baal worship in Israel, along with Asherah poles. These sex and religion shrines offered abominable worship to Baal in hopes of prosperity for the nation.

In stark contrast, Jehoshaphat destroyed the Baal high places and Asherah poles and established an educational system throughout Judah to teach the word of God. While Ahab sought prosperity, Jehoshaphat sought the presence of God. Ahab received drought and famine while Jehoshaphat received riches and honor in abundance. When comparing their stories, we find Matthew 6:33 at work:

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.

The terror of the LORD filled the nations surrounding Judah, and none of them dared go to war against Jehoshaphat. God protected him and firmly established the nation in his hand. In seeking relationship with God rather than riches, Jehoshaphat brought peace and prosperity to Judah by honoring God.

We can all learn a lesson from Jehoshaphat. By seeking God’s presence daily, He will care for our every need. We find security in our relationship with Him and not in the riches of this world. Just as Mary chose the one thing which was necessary, so we can choose to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from Him. When we do, God adds the other things to our life and establishes us for His purpose. Seek Him first today, and watch everything else fall into place.

Have a blessed day!

PHOEBE Connections, Inc. is a 501(c)3 dedicated to enhancing the lives of widows by building relationships and helping them find new identity in Jesus Christ through serving others. We promote an atmosphere of fellowship, where the widow can connect with other widows to develop friendships and supportive relationships.