Introduction:
Jotham, the son of Uzziah (also known as Azariah) and Jerusha, daughter of Zadok, was the eleventh king of the Kingdom of Judah. His reign is chronicled in the biblical books of 2 Kings 15:32-38 and 2 Chronicles 27. Jotham's rule is noted for his faithfulness to God, his construction projects, and his military successes. He is remembered as a king who "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (2 Kings 15:34).

Background:
Jotham ascended to the throne of Judah following the reign of his father, Uzziah, who had been struck with leprosy for unlawfully entering the temple to burn incense (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). During Uzziah's illness, Jotham effectively governed the kingdom as co-regent, gaining experience that would serve him well during his own reign.

Reign and Achievements:
Jotham's reign lasted for sixteen years, beginning in the second year of Pekah, king of Israel (2 Kings 15:32-33). He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and his reign is characterized by a commitment to the ways of the LORD, similar to his father Uzziah, though he did not repeat his father's mistake of entering the temple (2 Chronicles 27:2).

Jotham is credited with significant building projects, including the construction of the Upper Gate of the LORD's temple and extensive work on the wall of Ophel (2 Chronicles 27:3). He also built cities in the hill country of Judah and constructed fortresses and towers in the forests, demonstrating his focus on strengthening the kingdom's infrastructure and defenses.

Military Campaigns:
Jotham's military prowess is highlighted by his successful campaign against the Ammonites. He defeated them and imposed a tribute of a hundred talents of silver, ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley for three consecutive years (2 Chronicles 27:5). This victory not only secured Judah's borders but also contributed to the kingdom's prosperity during his reign.

Religious Observance:
Jotham is noted for his adherence to the worship of Yahweh, maintaining the religious reforms initiated by his predecessors. However, the high places, where unauthorized worship continued, were not removed during his reign (2 Kings 15:35). Despite this, Jotham's personal piety and dedication to God are emphasized in the biblical narrative.

Challenges and Legacy:
While Jotham's reign was marked by stability and prosperity, the spiritual state of the nation was not entirely reformed, as the people continued in corrupt practices (2 Chronicles 27:2). His reign set the stage for the challenges that would face his son and successor, Ahaz, who would lead Judah into a period of spiritual decline.

Jotham's legacy is one of faithfulness and effective leadership. His reign is a testament to the blessings that come from obedience to God, as "Jotham grew powerful because he ordered his ways before the LORD his God" (2 Chronicles 27:6). His life and reign serve as an example of the importance of godly leadership and the impact it can have on a nation.