2 Chronicles 19:1-11
Jehoshaphat’s fatal alliance with Israel warrants a severe reprimand from the LORD. Jehu asks the king a question which examines him at the same time as it teaches him what God thinks of Ahab: "Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the LORD?" (v. 2).
Christians, let us not forget that terrible name which the Word gives to those who love the world: "Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God" (James 4:4).
Jehu was brave, for in the reign of Asa, Hanani, his father, had been imprisoned for doing a similar thing (2 Chronicles 16:7-10). However Jehoshaphat heeds the reproof. This is the way to be "prudent" and to "get understanding" (Proverbs 15:5; Proverbs 15:32). Let us also accept the reprimands and remarks that may be made about us, as they can have a similarly beneficial result.
Whereas his father, Asa, had not been restored, Jehoshaphat, following this black period, is able to start up where he left off with the good work of ch. 17. Not being content this time with sending princes, he goes out himself amongst the people. And, as a true shepherd of Israel, he goes about bringing them back to the LORD (v. 4). After that he appoints judges, giving them urgent instructions.