ALL-IN

Now the Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the former ways of his father David; he did not seek the Baals, but sought the God of his father, and walked in His commandments and not according to the acts of Israel.

(2 Chronicles 17:3-4; NKJV)

God blessed Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, because he looked for God,

lived for God, and was loyal to God. The young king followed God and led his people to do the same. He removed all of the high places and pagan religious sites. He also sent men to teach the Word of God in the cities of his kingdom. As a result, God blessed him with peace and prosperity.

Go all-in for God.

Several of the kings of Judah served God, but not whole-heartedly. They made reforms, but would not remove the high places where people worshipped contrary to God's Word. Jehoshaphat changed that. He went all-in. God honored his whole-hearted devotion. Likewise, we should follow God whole-heartedly.

Look for God.

Jehoshaphat sought God. Many times people stray from God because they stop looking for Him. They get distracted and begin to look to other things for guidance and fulfillment. Seek God alone for guidance and fulfillment in life. He will not disappoint.

Live for God.

Jehoshaphat didn't just talk a good talk. He lived it. He obeyed God. We must put God's Word into practice for it to do us any good. Do what God says. We are not saved by doing good works. We are saved by God's grace, through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. We do good works to honor God. In turn, God honors obedience.

Be Loyal to God.

You can't serve God and something else. You must go all-in. He is Lord of all of your life, or He is Lord of none of it. This not just a one-time choice. It is a daily choice to pick up your cross (die to self) and follow Christ (live for Him).