2 Chronicles 19:4-11
Reflect
Jehoshaphat continues his reforms, including in the legal system, restoring administrative duties to the priests and Levites. He challenges them with these orders: “You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the Lord… otherwise his wrath will come on you and your brothers.” Do you hear the powerful level of exhortation and responsibility? As a good leader, the king makes it clear what his expectations are and what is at stake.
Recently, I watched the new Top Gun movie. What stood out for me was the level of excellence and determination that was expected of the pilots. I mused to my husband after, “What if we all approached our work with such excellence? Can you imagine what kind of world we would be?” We do expect particular occupations to require this commitment, such as pilots and those in the medical field. But for others, taking it easy, cutting corners, choosing the path of least resistance, and lowering our expectations can be the norm.
Apply
As the people of God, do we “serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the Lord?” Take some time to reflect if there is an area in your life where you sense God’s exhortation to bring into line your posture and work ethic with Him. For some, this may include better boundaries and saying “no” to overextending themselves. May you “act with courage” today.
Pastor Melissa
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for Karen Alksne, our Congregational Life Ministry Assistant.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.