5 He appointed judges in the land in all the fortified cities of Judah , city by city . 6 He said to the judges , "Consider what you are doing , for you do not judge for man but for the Lord who is with you when you render judgment . 7 "Now then let the fear of the Lord be upon you; be very careful what you do , for the Lord our God will have no part in unrighteousness or partiality e or the taking of a bribe ."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Chronicles 19:5-7
Chapter Contents
Jehoshaphat visits his kingdom.
Whenever we return in peace to our houses, we ought to acknowledge God's providence in preserving our going out and coming in. And if we have been kept through more than common dangers, we are, in a special manner, bound to be thankful. Distinguishing mercies lay us under strong obligations. The prophet tells Jehoshaphat he had done very ill in joining Ahab. He took the reproof well. See the effect the reproof had upon him. He strictly searched his own kingdom. By what the prophet said, Jehoshaphat perceived that his former attempts for reformation were well-pleasing to God; therefore he did what was then left undone. It is good when commendations quicken us to our duty. There are diversities of gifts and operations, but all from the same Spirit, and for the public good; and as every one has received the gift, so let him minister the same. Blessed be God for magistrates and ministers, scribes and statesmen, men of books, and men of business. Observe the charge the king gave. They must do all in the fear of the Lord, with a perfect, upright heart. And they must make it their constant care to prevent sin, as an offence to God, and what would bring wrath on the people.