|
Jehoshaphat found
his people generally very ignorant, and therefore endeavored to
have them well taught.
The public teaching of the word of God forms, in all ages, the
great method of promoting the power of godliness. Thereby the
understanding is informed, the conscience is awakened and
directed.
We have a particular account of Jehoshaphat's prosperity. But it
was not his formidable army that restrained the neighboring
nations from attempting any thing against Israel, but the fear of
God which fell upon them, when Jehoshaphat reformed his country,
and set up a preaching ministry in it.
The ordinances of God are more the strength and safety of a
kingdom, than soldiers and weapons of war. The Bible requires use
to notice the hand of God in every event, yet this is little
regarded.
But let all employ the talents they have: be faithful, even in
that which is little. Set up the worship of God in your houses.
The charge of a family is important. Why should you not instruct
them as Jehoshaphat did his subjects, in the book of the law of
the Lord. But be consistent. Do not recommend one thing, and
practise another. Begin with yourselves. Seek to the Lord God of
Israel, then call upon children and servants to follow your
example.
|
