“So Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God.” 2 Chronicles 27:6 NKJV
This verse stood out to me not because it indicated that Jotham became mighty, but it provided the reason as to the “why” he became so powerful. In thinking back to my days in school and even now in my place of employment, I can recall many times thinking to myself “just tell me what you want me to do…..” or “just give me the answer…..and I’ll do it”.
According to Oxford the meaning of prepare is to “make (something) ready for use or consideration”. Also according to Oxford, the meaning of before is “during the period of time preceding” or “in front of”.
Considering the definition of prepare above, when we have prepared something, it does not mean it is to be done – it is a consideration; something to be discussed, reviewed, and even scrutinized.
Taking those definitions and applying it to the above verse, we could summarize it by saying that Jotham became mighty because in all his planning, in all that he did, and in all that he considered, it was all laid out in front of the Lord preceding his actions, ready and willing to have his plans reviewed and revised by the Lord.
So now we know just what to do. So the question becomes, will we do it?
Lock Your Wings 
“King Jotham became powerful because he was careful to live in obedience to the Lord his God.”
2 Chronicles 27:6 NLT
The same verse stood out for me for many of the reasons you mentioned. Also that Jotham was careful – as in he chose something that was not easy -and that contributed to his success. As you concluded: “So now we know just what to do. So the question becomes, will we do it?“ we are reminded that we also have a choice. Living in obedience is not easy. It wasn’t easy for Jotham and it’s not easy for us.
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