2 Chronicles 17:6

And his heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord: moreover he took away the high places and groves out of Judah.

2 Chronicles 17:6 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the account of Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of Judah after the kingdom divided. The chapter shows his devotion to the Lord and his efforts to strengthen the nation spiritually. His father Asa had failed to remove the high places, but Jehoshaphat went further in reform.

Meaning

“His heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord” means his heart was encouraged and strengthened to obey God, not lifted up with pride. This is a positive condition. His devotion led to action: he removed the high places and groves. High places were unauthorized worship sites, often used for pagan rites. Groves were symbols of Asherah, a Canaanite goddess. Removing them was a concrete rejection of idolatry. Such a heart, set on God, naturally produces visible obedience.

Biblical connections

Psalm 138:6 contrasts the proud, whom the Lord knows afar off, with the lowly whom He regards. Jehoshaphat’s lifted heart was toward God, not self, showing that true devotion results in purging false worship. The Lord honors those who honor Him by removing what competes with His exclusive claim.

Application

We must examine our lives for “high places” and “groves”—habits, priorities, or affections that compete with God’s exclusive claim. True devotion leads to removing them, not just feeling religious. This requires deliberate action, just as Jehoshaphat actively tore down what dishonored God. Consider what may be quietly taking God’s place in your heart.

Reflection

Christ, as the true King, purifies His people from idolatry and enables them to walk in His ways. A heart lifted up in God’s ways will always show itself in practical obedience. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, so let your heart be lifted toward Him alone.