“But in the seventh year Jehoiada took courage and entered into a covenant with the commanders of hundreds, Azariah the son of Jeroham, Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, Azariah the son of Obed, Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri. And they went about through Judah and gathered the Levites from all the cities of Judah, and the heads of fathers’ houses of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem.” 2 Chron. 23:1,2
Devotional Thought For The Day
This is the beginning of the account of how Joash, wicked king Ahaziah’s orphaned son, came to power. There is much political intrigue in this account; Jehoiada’s wife was Ahaziah’s sister, Joash’s aunt. Jehoiada was one of the higher-ups in the priesthood. This account takes place in the midst of one of the most wretched periods in the history of Judah, the southern kingdom of Israel, and the early history of Joash is a refreshing change, as a renewal of loyalty to God and refurbishing of the temple took place; but in the end he lapsed back into the wicked and idolatrous practices of his ancestors and died an ignoble death. Once the elderly Jehoiada had died Joash re-instituted the former idolatrous practices in Israel. Jehoiada’s son, the prophet Zechariah, publicly condemned this wretched abandonment of God, and Joash had him summarily executed.
What is interesting in this account is the relationship of church and state, and the “courage” of Jehoiada, a priest, in doing what he could to right the ship and provide a better future for the kingdom. His influence and ability to forge a positive alliance with the military leaders is remarkable. His devotion to the God of Israel, the only True and Living God is exemplary and precious. His foray into politics was bold and dangerous, and quite out of character for a man of God. He accomplished, through political means, a refreshing time of loyalty and faithfulness to God for the nation – although in the end it proved to be superficial, at least for the leaders of Judah, the “princes.” [2 Chron. 24:17] With Jehoiada out of the way Joash proved to be weak in loyalty and faithfulness to God, and the “winds” of politics blew him back into wretched idolatry.
In our own uncertain times we must consider all avenues for working good both in the church and within our nation. Jehoiada armed the Levites and set them as guards around the young king Joash; we, however, are not to take up the sword, for the Lord’s kingdom is not “of this world.” [Jn. 18:36] Self-defense is permissible under the 5th Commandment, but not always advisable. However, we are to be involved in the political process, and if opportunity presents itself, to form alliances and partnerships for the betterment of the nation. We must be faithful in proclaiming right and wrong – as Zechariah did, and we must be prepared for the consequences, which at times means persecution and even martyrdom. We should be aware of wicked and evil intrigue that is currently rampant in national politics, and at times invades the life of the church. By their fruits you shall know them, and we must take heed and beware, for “what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” [2 Cor. 6:14] All of this requires wisdom, courage, and political skill, and faith and trust in God that whatever the outcome we have served His purposes and interests.
The wretchedness and sordidness continues to bear witness to the reality that the only hope for mankind, for restoration to decency and godliness, is the gracious mercy and kindness of God. We must never become self-righteous in trying to serve God and His kingdom, but cling always to His forgiveness, grace, and love. This is the ultimate will of God for all people, and the chief purpose behind His general clemency and patience in not bringing this age to a close immediately. Likewise, we must keep in mind the greater goal of all human history – not to recreate a garden of Eden in this fallen world of sin, but the perfect kingdom of righteousness and peace to come, which will be inhabited by all those who are friends of God, who have taken refuge and safety in His forgiveness and salvation through faith in Jesus. In all of this, whatever we do for the sake of God’s purposes and kingdom [the good of mankind], let us have the courage and faith of Jehoiada – and act boldly in accord with God’s will. May He bless our efforts by effecting His loving will – however small and temporary this may be.
Prayer For The Day
Dear Lord Jesus, You also had great courage and determination, not in politicking and warfare, but in doing God’s will for the greatest blessedness of mankind. Help us to understand how precious people like Jehoiada truly are, who fight against the wretchedness of godlessness in culture, and unfaithfulness in the church. Help us to see that we are called to be faithful in our own sphere of influence – whether large or small, and that You can do marvelous things if only we have courage and faith. Help us to take our place among Your loyal servants, that our legacy be to the praise of Your glorious grace. Amen.