Passage
2 Chronicles 27:1-9 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
Jotham Walked Steadfastly Before the Lord
Date: Sep. 8, 2014
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 27:6
First, Jotham grew powerful (1-9). Jotham became king and ruled while his father was dying from leprosy. He built infrastructure and defense (enemies were looming 2Ki 15:37). God gave him victory over the Ammonites, who paid him tribute. Jotham grew powerful. David said, "Power belongs to God (Ps 62:11)."
Second, the secret of Jotham's success. Three kings before him started well, but then became proud and ended terribly (Joash, Amaziah, Uzziah). How did Jotham break the chain? First, he had a sense of history. He did what was right, while avoiding the mistakes of Uzziah. Second, the LORD was "his" God. Success and power become addictions that drive people. But Jotham's personal relationship with God prevented him from seeing God as a means to an end. He walked with God.
Prayer: Father, thank you for the privilege of knowing you as my God. Help me walk steadfastly before you today.
One Word: The LORD my God
