1 Kings 22:41-53 | 2 Kings 1 | 2 Chronicles 19:1-21:3

After Ahab died, his son Ahaziah became king for 2 years, but he was wicked also. He was injured in an accident at home, and sought to inquire of the false god baal-zebub (lord of the flies), but God sent Elijah to reprimand Ahaziah, and confirm his imminent death. Ahaziah had no sons, so his brother Jerhoram became king in Israel.

King Jehoshaphat in Judah was faithful to the Lord throughout his reign of 25 years, except that the Lord rebuked him for helping the wicked kings of Israel (Ahab and his son). He instituted righteous laws and judges in the land, and taught the people to follow the Lord.

When the enemies of Judah came to make war against Jehoshaphat, his immediate response was to go to the Lord in prayer, which was a very powerful and effective prayer (2 Chronicles 20:6-13). The Lord responded by telling Jehoshaphat what He was going to do, and what the king and the people should do. The battle was fought and won by the Lord alone, and the people of Judah were 3 days in gathering the massive plunder.

The rest of Jehoshaphat’s reign was peaceful and prosperous, and his son Jehoram became king in his place when he died.