1 Kings 22:41-53

“Broken Ships”

1 Kings 22:41

Further details of Jehoshaphat's good reign are given in 2 Chronicles 17:1; 2 Chronicles 18:1; 2 Chronicles 19:1; 2 Chronicles 20:1. He made strenuous efforts to rid the land of the more obvious evils that disgraced it, though some of the abuses seemed too deeply rooted even for his strong hand, 1 Kings 22:43. The great defect of Jehoshaphat's character was the ease with which he associated himself with Ahab and his family; for this subsequent generations paid a heavy penalty, 2 Kings 11:1.

Jehoshaphat attempted to re-open the sea-commerce with Ophir, and entered into partnership with Ahaziah to build ships in Solomon's old port of Ezion-geber, to make the circuit of Africa en route for Spain. But, as we learn from 2 Chronicles 20:37, a prophet of Jehovah remonstrated with him for renewing the alliance with the king of Israel; and the storm that shattered the ships on the rocks, before they set sail, gave evidence of the displeasure of the Almighty. Let us beware of these alliances and partnerships with the ungodly. Sooner or later they meet with disaster. God blocks our path and defeats our plans; and if only we are led to repentance, our broken ships may give us cause for thanksgiving in eternity.

For Review Questions, see the e-Sword Book Comments.