Adventure Day 39 - April Fools Day! - 4/1/09

Dear Co-Adventurers,

If you have read through the historical books of the Old Testament, you will be acquainted with the many disappointing turns made by God's people. In Confirmation Class, we call what we see (repeated many times in Judges - 2 Chronicles) the "sin cycle." Here's how it goes: After a period of peace and prosperity, the people forget God. The inevitable result of their rebellion is difficult times (famine, invasion, etc.). They turn back to God in desperation. He hears their prayers, and honors their Godward response with deliverance. There is a momentary return to faith and loyalty toward God, after which there follows a time of peace and prosperity. Then the cycle repeats itself (again and again!). Actually, it's rather depressing, or in keeping with the April 1st theme, it's so foolish!

Today's Adventure text is one of those great exceptions, a description of King Jehoshaphat of Judah [Read 2 Chronicles 17:1-6]. Here this faithful king is described with the following commendation: "His heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord (v. 6)." As he was attentive to the presence of the Lord in his kingdom, a national revival was birthed. Not only did Jehoshaphat take positive steps toward God; he also took proactive steps to eliminate evil influences from his life and the lives of his people. As you read these six verses, can you identify these steps? What might be equivalents of Jehoshaphat's actions you could apply to your life? Finally, did you notice The Lord's response to Jehoshaphat's faithfulness (vv. 3 &5)?

Lord, may our hearts be devoted to your ways... lead us to awakening of faith and loyalty toward you. Help us to be attentive to your presence in our day.

God's Peace,
Pastor Paul