History indicates God is a positive influence upon society. For example, the Renaissance and the Reformation occurred almost simultaneously and greatly influenced each other. Many scholars think the revival sparked by John and Charles Wesley aborted an English revolution.
So we shouldn’t be surprised when stories in the Bible link obedience to God with peace and prosperity.
Consider King Jehoshaphat. As is true for all individuals, he wasn’t above reproach but he did try to walk in God’s commands. He instituted significant reforms for his people. And listen to the advice he gave his judges: “you do not judge for man but for the Lord . . . there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, no partiality, nor taking of bribes.” (I Chron. 19:6b,7b NKJV)
Lest the judges become discouraged by the high standard, Jehoshaphat added a final thought: “Behave courageously, and the Lord will be with the good.” (v. 11b)
Oirignally published February 6, 1987.
Picture: Como Park, St. Paul, 2008. Photo by Solveig.
So we shouldn’t be surprised when stories in the Bible link obedience to God with peace and prosperity.
Consider King Jehoshaphat. As is true for all individuals, he wasn’t above reproach but he did try to walk in God’s commands. He instituted significant reforms for his people. And listen to the advice he gave his judges: “you do not judge for man but for the Lord . . . there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, no partiality, nor taking of bribes.” (I Chron. 19:6b,7b NKJV)
Lest the judges become discouraged by the high standard, Jehoshaphat added a final thought: “Behave courageously, and the Lord will be with the good.” (v. 11b)
Oirignally published February 6, 1987.
Picture: Como Park, St. Paul, 2008. Photo by Solveig.
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