Good or Bad Example

O. T. # 812  "Good or Bad Example"
August 15, 2016
1 Kings 22-Part 3
Jehoshaphat was a good king, following the example of his father, Asa. (1 Kings 22:43)

But he (Ahaziah) did what was evil in the LORD's sight, following the example of his father and mother... (1 King's 22:52)

LET IT GLOW

I look at the examples of a good king and a bad king that appears at the end of this book and wonder-what will others say about me when I am dead and gone? Did I show kindness, give to those in need, show love and encouragement, stay faithful to my God; or was I judgmental, saying discouraging words, stay in my ivory house, turn my head away from those in need? Is my life only words, or is it a doer of The Word? Am I a living example of what I teach, as Jesus' was?

King Ahab of Israel was dead. He was buried in Samaria. This king had lead Israel away from God for 22 years. Then his chariot was washed beside the pool there, and dogs came and licked his blood at the place where the prostitutes bathed, just as the LORD had promised. He is remembered as being the worst king of Israel.

His son, Ahaziah, ruled Israel for two years. He followed in his mother and father's example, as well as Jeroboam, doing hat was evil in the LORD's sight. He served and worshiped Baal, which provoked the LORD to anger just like his father.

Are our children following in our footsteps? Are they faithfully serving Jesus as we are, or are they going their own way?

LET IT GROW

Getting back to King Jehoshaphat of Judah, who had joined Ahab in battle against the Arameans in the attempt to conquer the city of Ramoth-gilead. He returned safely home in Jerusalem. He was age 35 when Jehoshaphat became king and reigned 25 years. Doing our math, he is now 60.

What was the accomplishments of Jehoshaphat during his reign as king over Judah?

• He followed the example of his father, Asa. (verse 43)
• He did what was pleasing in the LORD's sight.
• However, during his reign, Jehoshaphat failed to remove all the pagan shrines in the high places, so the people still offered sacrifices and burned incense there.
• He made peace with the king of Israel, yet compromised his loyalty in refusing to cooperate with Ahaziah in another attempt at restoring sea trade with Africa for gold.
• He removed the male cult prostitutes.

Jehoshaphat is noted as the king who made many contributions to the spiritual, moral, and material health of Israel. Although, he was not successful in eradicating the hill shrines.

As we close the book, let us consider what influence our life has on another generation-good and bad.

LET IT GO

                             ... of my family's unforgiving tendencies and forgive others.
                             ... of my selfish ways and love others.
                             ... and share and care today.