2 Chronicles 17:1
Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place and strengthened himself against Israel.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The text doesn't just say Jehoshaphat ruled, but that he "strengthened himself." This implies a deliberate, active effort to fortify his kingdom, not just a passive assumption of the throne. He wasn't just succeeding his father; he was making himself ready for whatever challenges lay ahead, particularly from the northern kingdom of Israel.
Jehoshaphat inherits a kingdom from his father Asa that is largely at peace and has been following God. However, the northern kingdom of Israel, which had split off years earlier, remained a constant threat and often a source of spiritual danger. After securing his own kingdom and consolidating his power, Jehoshaphat makes preparations for potential conflict with Israel, demonstrating a proactive approach to leadership and security.
When life feels shaky, what's our first instinct? For King Jehoshaphat, it was to build defenses. Let's explore what 'strengthening himself' truly meant for him and how it can guide us.
Jehoshaphat took the throne after his father Asa, a good king who had some successes but also faced challenges.
A Legacy of Faith and Defense
The verse tells us Jehoshaphat 'strengthened himself against Israel.' This wasn't about aggressive expansion, but about securing his kingdom's borders and internal stability, especially given the ongoing tension and division with the northern kingdom of Israel.
It involved:
His actions were a response to the political realities of his day, a proactive step to ensure his people's safety and the continuity of the Davidic line and God's covenant promises.
Jehoshaphat built up his kingdom, but the real story of his reign reveals a deeper source of strength. What happens when our defenses are tested?
While Jehoshaphat took practical steps to fortify his kingdom, the broader narrative of his reign shows that his ultimate security came from God.
The Foundation of Faith
Later in 2 Chronicles, we see Jehoshaphat facing a massive invading army. His response isn't to muster more troops, but to call for a fast and declare, 'We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you' (2 Chronicles 20:12).
His prayer in that moment is key: 'O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we have no might against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.' (2 Chronicles 20:12)
Jehoshaphat's early reign began with a focus on defense against the Northern Kingdom of Israel, a significant shift from his father's policy of forming alliances with Syrian kings against Israel. This initial stance underscores the volatile political landscape and the constant need for Judah to secure its borders.
931 BC
Kingdom Splits
After Solomon's death, the united kingdom of Israel splits into two: the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah). This division sets the stage for ongoing conflict.
c. 911-887 BC
Reign of Asa
Jehoshaphat's father, King Asa, reigned over Judah. While Asa had periods of faithfulness, he also relied on alliances with Syria against Israel, a practice Jehoshaphat would later reform.
c. 873 BC— this verse
Jehoshaphat Becomes King
Jehoshaphat ascends to the throne of Judah at age 35. He begins his reign by establishing his authority and securing his kingdom.
c. 870 BC
Alliance with Israel
Initially, Jehoshaphat pursues a policy of strengthening against the Northern Kingdom of Israel, reflecting historical tensions. Later, he would form a significant (and controversial) alliance with King Ahab of Israel.
This passage highlights the ongoing tension and conflict between the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, setting the stage for Jehoshaphat's need to strengthen himself.
1 Kings 15:19This verse shows that Judah's strength against Israel was often reliant on alliances and resources, offering context for how Jehoshaphat might have achieved his strengthening.
2 Chronicles 18:1This verse immediately follows our text and shows Jehoshaphat's relationship with the king of Israel, revealing the complexities of his stance – he strengthened himself against Israel, yet made alliances with its king.
Nehemiah 9:32This passage reflects on God's faithfulness despite Israel's unfaithfulness, providing a theological backdrop for understanding the precarious political situations faced by kings like Jehoshaphat.
The text doesn't just say Jehoshaphat ruled, but that he "strengthened himself." This implies a deliberate, active effort to fortify his kingdom, not just a passive assumption of the throne. He wasn't just succeeding his father; he was making himself ready for whatever challenges lay ahead, particularly from the northern kingdom of Israel.
Jehoshaphat inherits a kingdom from his father Asa that is largely at peace and has been following God. However, the northern kingdom of Israel, which had split off years earlier, remained a constant threat and often a source of spiritual danger. After securing his own kingdom and consolidating his power, Jehoshaphat makes preparations for potential conflict with Israel, demonstrating a proactive approach to leadership and security.
Jehoshaphat inherits a kingdom from his father Asa that is largely at peace and has been following God. However, the northern kingdom of Israel, which had split off years earlier, remained a constant threat and often a source of spiritual danger. After securing his own kingdom and consolidating his power, Jehoshaphat makes preparations for potential conflict with Israel, demonstrating a proactive approach to leadership and security.
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This reveals the vital truth: outward strengthening is wise, but inward trust in God is essential. True strength isn't just about building walls; it's about having our hearts anchored in the Lord, ready to face any threat knowing He is our ultimate defender.
c. 853 BC
Battle of Qarqar
Jehoshaphat is mentioned as part of a coalition that fought against the Assyrian Empire at Qarqar. This battle shows Judah's involvement in larger regional politics.
"Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place and strengthened himself against Israel." — The text doesn't just say Jehoshaphat ruled, but that he "strengthened himself." This implies a deliberate, active effort to fortify his kingdom, not just a passive assumption of the throne. He was…
