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2 Chronicles 19:11 "And behold, Amariah the chief priest is over you in all matters of the Lord; and Zebadiah the son of Ishmael, the governor of the house of Judah, in all the king’s matters; and the Levites will serve you as officers. Deal courageously, and may the Lord be with the upright!”

 

Jehoshaphat is appointing "certain Levites and priests and heads of families of Israel, to give judgment for the Lord and to decide disputed cases." (2 Chronicles 19:4-7) He instructs them to be faithful to the Lord in exercising their judgment and reminds them of the authority structure that supports them. 

 

The authority structure is important to keep in mind for both guidance and support. God uses his servants here on earth to accomplish His will, to act in His stead. Jehoshaphat is doing this as king, and is appointing subordinates to act as judges. But these men are human, they have their own biases, sinful tendencies, partialities, and other weaknesses. They need to be aware of these things and remember to seek the advice and guidance of others, especially when their own weaknesses may be impacting their right judgment. The authority structure keeps them in line, but also offers them support as they carry out their duties. 

 

It is good to seek guidance from authority. We can sometimes be intimidated by those in positions above us, or even bristle at their instruction. But when we acknowledge our limitations, and ask those God has placed over us for assistance, everyone gains.