John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 6. And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord , etc.] It was engaged in them, was bent and set upon them; he walked in them with great pleasure and cheerfulness, being inspired with zeal and courage; he was fearless and intrepid, and regarded not any opposition he might have, or expect to have, in the work of reformation in which he was concerned: moreover, he took away the high places ; such as were dedicated to idols, but not those in which the true God was worshipped, ( 2 Chronicles 20:33) and groves out of Judah ; where idols were placed; for though these had been removed by Asa, yet had been renewed in the latter part of his days, when more negligent of religion.
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 ויגבה1361 לבו3820 בדרכי1870 יהוה3068 ועוד5750 הסיר5493 את853 הבמות1116 ואת853 האשׁרים842 מיהודה׃3063
