John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 5. Therefore the Lord stablished the kingdom in his hand , etc.] Piety is the best prop of government; the throne is best supported and established by truth, righteousness, and mercy; by the exercise of these Jehoshaphat was settled in his kingdom, and had a place in the hearts of his people: and all Judah brought to Jehoshaphat presents ; being well affected to him, as well as it was usual so to do at a prince’s accession to the throne, (see 1 Samuel 10:27) and he had riches and honour in abundance ; through the presents his subjects brought him, and the respect they showed him.
Matthew Henry Commentary
- Jehoshaphat promotes religion in Judah, His prosperity.
--Jehoshaphat found his people generally very ignorant, and therefor endeavoured to have them well taught. The public teaching of the wor of God forms, in all ages, the great method of promoting the power of godliness. Thereby the understanding is informed, the conscience is awakened and directed. We have a particular account of Jehoshaphat' prosperity. But it was not his formidable army that restrained the neighbouring nations from attempting any thing against Israel, but the fear of God which fell upon them, when Jehoshaphat reformed his country, and set up a preaching ministry in it. The ordinances of God are more the strength and safety of a kingdom, than soldiers an weapons of war. The Bible requires use to notice the hand of God in every event, yet this is little regarded. But let all employ the talents they have: be faithful, even in that which is little. Set u the worship of God in your houses. The charge of a family is important Why should you not instruct them as Jehoshaphat did his subjects, in the book of the law of the Lord. But be consistent. Do not recommen one thing, and practise another. Begin with yourselves. Seek to the Lord God of Israel, then call upon children and servants to follow you example _________________________________________________
Original Hebrew ויכן3559 יהוה3068 את853 הממלכה4467 בידו3027 ויתנו5414 כל3605 יהודה3063 מנחה4503 ליהושׁפט3092 ויהי1961 לו עשׁר6239 וכבוד3519 לרב׃7230
