Today’s scripture: Matthew 1:1-8, 2 Chronicles 17:1-10 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Melody Merida):
Have you ever wondered where the expression “Jumpin’ Jehoshaphat!” came from? It may very well have come from this ancient ancestor of Jesus we find in today’s reading, even though there is no mention anywhere in the Scriptures of Jehoshaphat ever jumping. However, there is plenty of other information about this intriguing character.
While we certainly couldn’t say that Jehoshaphat was perfect (after all, he allied himself with Israel’s wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel at one point), I think the Bible gives an equally enviable definition of this man. As I read through this passage of Scripture, I was continually getting caught on one phrase: “His heart was courageous in the ways of the Lord.”
I kept wondering “What does that mean to say that his heart was courageous in the ways of the Lord?” Webster’s defines courage as “the strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” This seems to really fit this King of Judah; particularly as we continue reading and we see that Jehoshaphat destroyed the places of worship for false gods popular in Judah at the time of his reign.
Think about that. He destroyed the houses of worship that didn’t recognize Yahweh as God. This was no small thing. Imagine if someone went through our land and tore down all the churches and all the symbols of Christianity that abound here. I dare say that person would be in a heap of trouble. But because of his courageous heart Jehoshaphat did what God asked, despite the danger.
I know this isn’t the correct historical context for the popular expression “Jumpin’ Jehoshaphat”; but I think that sounds like a good way to describe Jehoshaphat. He jumped when God asked him to jump into action. He didn’t question God; he simply jumped. Now that sure sounds like courage to me!
Thought for the day: Is God asking me to jump? God, grant me a heart which is courageous in your ways so that I may jump when you call me. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.