2 Chronicles 19:9

He commanded them, saying, "You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the LORD.

Study Bible

He commanded them, saying,
This phrase indicates a directive from a figure of authority, in this case, King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Jehoshaphat was known for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. The context here is his appointment of judges throughout the fortified cities of Judah, emphasizing the importance of justice and righteousness. This command reflects the king's commitment to ensuring that his officials uphold God's laws.

“You must serve faithfully
The call to serve faithfully underscores the importance of integrity and reliability in leadership and governance. In the biblical context, faithfulness is a key attribute of God's character, and those who serve Him are expected to reflect this quality. This mirrors the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where faithfulness is a central theme. The Hebrew concept of faithfulness (emunah) involves trustworthiness and steadfastness, qualities that are essential for judges and leaders.

and wholeheartedly
Serving wholeheartedly implies complete devotion and sincerity. This phrase suggests that service to God and His people should not be half-hearted or superficial. In Deuteronomy 6:5, the Israelites are commanded to love the LORD with all their heart, soul, and strength, indicating that wholeheartedness is a fundamental aspect of their relationship with God. This call to wholehearted service is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to do everything as if serving the Lord (Colossians 3:23).

in the fear of the LORD.
The fear of the LORD is a recurring theme in the wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly in Proverbs, where it is described as the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). This fear is not about being afraid but rather having a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God. It involves recognizing His holiness, justice, and power. For the judges appointed by Jehoshaphat, serving in the fear of the LORD meant administering justice with an awareness of God's presence and authority, ensuring that their decisions aligned with His righteous standards. This concept is foundational for understanding the biblical worldview, where God's sovereignty and moral order are central.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah who initiated reforms to bring the people back to the worship of the LORD. He is known for his efforts to establish justice and righteousness in the land.

2. Judges and Officials
Appointed by Jehoshaphat to administer justice throughout Judah. They were given specific instructions to judge fairly and in the fear of the LORD.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jehoshaphat reigned. It was a place of both spiritual decline and revival during his reign.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Jehoshaphat established a central court to ensure justice was administered according to God's laws.

5. The Fear of the LORD
A central theme in Jehoshaphat's reforms, emphasizing reverence and obedience to God as the foundation for justice and governance.

Teaching Points

Serve Faithfully
As believers, we are called to serve God and others with integrity and dedication, reflecting His character in our actions.

Wholehearted Commitment
Our service to God should be complete and undivided, prioritizing His will above all else.

Fear of the LORD
Reverence for God is foundational to righteous living and decision-making. It should guide our actions and attitudes in all areas of life.

Justice and Righteousness
Upholding justice is a divine mandate. We are to seek fairness and equity in our interactions and responsibilities.

Leadership Accountability
Those in positions of authority are accountable to God for their actions and decisions. They must lead with humility and a fear of the LORD.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's command to serve "faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the LORD" challenge your current approach to serving God and others?

2. In what ways can the fear of the LORD influence your daily decisions and interactions with others?

3. How can you apply the principles of justice and righteousness in your personal and professional life?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision. How did reverence for God guide your choice?

5. How can you encourage and support leaders in your community to serve with integrity and in the fear of the LORD?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 16:18-20
This passage outlines the appointment of judges and officials, emphasizing justice and the fear of God, similar to Jehoshaphat's reforms.

Proverbs 9:10
Highlights the fear of the LORD as the beginning of wisdom, which is essential for judges and leaders in making righteous decisions.

Micah 6:8
Calls for justice, mercy, and humility before God, reflecting the principles Jehoshaphat sought to instill in his officials.

Romans 13:1-4
Discusses the role of governing authorities as God's servants, tasked with promoting good and restraining evil, aligning with Jehoshaphat's vision for his judges.