2 Chronicles 19:1-11
Jehoshaphat made a serious error in allying with Ahab, but he did right in calling on God when he saw his life was in danger so he returned safely. God sent Jehu, a prophet, to correct him also recognizing the good he did: “But there is some good in you, for you have removed the Asheroth from the land and you have set your heart to seek God.” (3). Then Jehoshaphat took a number of steps to bring back the people to the “…LORD, the God of their fathers.” (4c). Not to the God of his own perception, but to the historically defined God of their fathers. He made reforms by appointing judges in fortified cities exhorting them: “Now then let the fear of the LORD be upon you; be very careful what you do, for the LORD our God will have no part in unrighteousness or partiality, or the taking of a bribe.” (7). He also appointed spiritual leaders to settle disputes according to true justice. “Then he charged them saying, ‘Thus you shall do in the fear of the LORD, faithfully and wholeheartedly.” (9) They were to do this by an understanding of God’s word and not their own perception. He appointed a spiritual leader and said: “…Act resolutely, and the LORD be with the upright.” (11d). Jehoshaphat’s repentance was not seen in the mere emotion of sorrow, but in the actions he took to restore righteousness to those he served.