2 Chronicles 19 — Justice before the Throne
Return and rebuke: After the misalliance of chapter 18, Jehoshaphat is met by Jehu son of Hanani (the same prophetic line that corrected Asa). Mercy and warning hold together: “Should you help the wicked? … Nevertheless there is some good in you” (New International Version). Mature leadership receives correction and reforms systems—not only feelings.
Reform at the gates: Jehoshaphat posts judges city by city and charges them, “You are not judging for man but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict” (New International Version). He names priests (Amariah) and officials (Zebadiah), yoking worship and civic life. Hebrew notes: yir’at YHWH (fear of the LORD) governs justice; no “lifting of the face” (nasa panim—partiality), no shochad (bribe). Archaeology reminds us judgment happened at the gate benches (e.g., Lachish, Dan)—public, accountable. Theologically, courts become a small sacrament of God’s own impartial rule (Deuteronomy 10:17). Augustine and Calvin both saw magistracy as a divine trust.
Cross references: Exodus 18; Deuteronomy 16:18–20; 2 Samuel 23:3; James 2:1–9; 1 Corinthians 6:1–5.
Hymn: “God of Grace and God of Glory” (“grant us wisdom, grant us courage”).
Prayer: Judge of all the earth, teach us holy fear. Cleanse our partiality, steady our courage, and make our homes, churches, and courts reflect your just and merciful rule through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Narrated version of this devotional on 2 Chronicles Chapter 19