2 Crônicas 27

2 Crônicas 27

Morgan - 2 Chr 27.6. We have very few details of the reign of Jotham. In all probability the sixteen years referred to by the chronicler cover a period in which he was exercising authority, while his father Uzziah was still alive, though excluded from the kingly office on account of his leprosy. He continued the work of his father in the strengthening of the internal conditions of the kingdom by building; and he was successful in a campaign against the Ammonites. While there was no definite national reform during his reign, he seems to have gone quietly forward along true lines, and his strength is attributed to the fact that he ordered his ways before Jehovah his God. Perhaps three things helped this man. First, he reigned during the early period in which Isaiah was exercising his prophetic ministry. Second, his mother was almost certainly the daughter of Zadok the priest. Third, he profited by his father's example—both good and bad, following the good and shunning the evil. All good influences are to be valued, but the ultimate note is always personal. "He ordered his ways." If a man will do this, then he will ever profit by all the influences brought to bear on him, distinguishing between good and evil, and choosing according to the will of God. Jotham’s epitaph I. EVERY MAN IS UNDER GOD’S INSPECTION. How truly did the ancients realise this (Psa 139:1-24.; Jer 23:23-24; 2Ch 16:9; Job 34:22). We little consider this in the present day. II. EVERY MAN SHOULD LIVE AS UNDER GOD’S INSPECTION. A man’s conduct will be very different if he realises that God’s eye is on him. He will avoid sin. He will bear in mind the love of his Father who is in heaven. He will try to please Him in thought as well as in deed. III. The recognition of God’s presence is the foundation-stone of all prosperity. It renders a man great, for-- 1. It makes him careful not to do that which will disgrace him. 2. It entitles him to Divine protection and help. 3. It fills him with a consciousness of rectitude, which in itself is a panoply of defence. (Homilist.) F B