As a good ruler, Jehoshaphat was concerned about the quality of justice in his kingdom. He instituted legal reforms to this end.
Jehoshaphat set up a system of courts and judges to help the cause of fairness in the land. Some were throughout the fortified cities of Judah while others held court in Jerusalem. The king was adamant that all these judges should deal justly with the people.
To the men he appointed throughout Judah, he commanded: "Consider what you are doing, for you judge not on behalf of human beings but on the Lord’s behalf; he is with you in giving judgment. Now, let the fear of the Lord be upon you; take care what you do, for there is no perversion of justice with the Lord our God, or partiality, or taking of bribes" (vs. 6-7).
To the higher court established in Jerusalem itself, Jehoshaphat charged: "This is how you shall act: in the fear of the Lord, in faithfulness, and with your whole heart" (vs. 9). He also appointed Amariah the chief priest to be the head of religious matters and Zebadiah to be chief over all royal issues. The Levites were assigned to serve as officers of the courts. After further instruction, the king concluded, "Deal courageously, and may the Lord be with the good!" (vs. 11)
We could use a little wisdom and organization like Jehoshaphat brought to the kingdom of Judah today!
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