A hope-filled end to a sad Story

 Read 2 Chronicles 36. 

Judah experienced a rapid succession of kings and three take-overs.  First Neco, king of Egypt came up from the south and brought Judah under his control.  He even dethroned King Jehoahaz and took him back to Egypt as a prisoner. 

Next, Nebuchadnezzar, King of the Babylonian Empire, came down from the north and forcefully took control of Judah in 605 B.C.  Most of those who were not killed were taken captive back to Babylon.  Among the captives were Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  Two more times the Babylonians came until the land of Judah was totally conquered in 586 B.C. 

Then, the Medes and the Persians conquered Babylonia.  In one of the most astounding passages displaying God’s sovereignty, He stirred the heart of the pagan King Cyrus to release the Jews to go back home.  Even more, he charged them to rebuild the Temple and he would pay for it! 

What was God doing?

1.     He was responding to the evil and blatant disregard for Him and His word.

Each of these kings after Josiah not only ignored the LORD and His claims upon them, but they involved themselves in every evil practice.  They willfully refused to acknowledge that it was the LORD who gave them life and opportunity.  This was His land.  They were His people.  They were only allowed to be there as a result of His blessing.

2.     In His love, mercy, and patience with them, He faithfully sent messenger

after messenger to call them back to God.  “The LORD, the God of their fathers, sent persistently to them by his messengers, because he had compassion on his people and on his dwelling place” (v.15).  But instead of listening and embracing what God had made clear to them, they rejected the word of God and even mocked it.

3.      He was fulfilling His word with or without them.

In their ignorance of the Scriptures, and/or rebellion against God’s commands they had not rested the land every 7 years.  These skipped Sabbath years now totaled 70 that the nation owed God.  Jeremiah, one of those messengers from the LORD, made this clear to them well in advance (Jeremiah 25:11-12). 

Insights for all of us:

1.     It is better to listen to God and humbly respond than to suffer the consequences of disobedience.

2.     It is better to give God what rightfully belongs to Him than for Him to have to take it from us.

3.     It is better to live for the LORD and experience the blessings He desires to bestow upon us.

The Greatest Celebration in 400 Years!

 Read 2 Chronicles 35. 

Nothing was spared in celebrating the Passover when King Josiah reigned. 

As he grew older, he also grew in his spiritual leadership.  The Temple had been cleansed and repaired.  The Book of the Law had been discovered and there was a renewed commitment to obey it.  Only now could the leadership and the nation properly come before the LORD for a wholehearted celebration. 

1. They prepared themselves.

The Levites who taught and served at the Temple were charged again to fulfill their responsibilities.  This meant they were to accomplish their assigned tasks by family and division as prescribed in the Scriptures.  They then could put the Ark back where it belonged.  In order to handle the tremendous amount of people and offering, they must be ready.  There was work to be done. 

2. They consecrated themselves.

Without spiritual preparation, they would just be doing a job, instead of a ministry.  The price of serving God is purity!  Ministry is an inside out work.  It begins within the heart of the servant and flows into the lives of others. 

3. They worked hard.

Those who taught the people, those who helped with the sacrifices, those who burned the offerings, those who boiled the meat, those cleaned up after all the mess, those who sang, those who offered the sacrifices and worshiped--all celebrated together!  Yes, they came for the day of Passover, but the feast lasted a week. 

Verse 18 states: "No Passover like it had been kept in Israel since the days of Samuel the prophet." 

Worship is not a spectator sport.  Everyone should come with their hearts right before the LORD and ready to give, work and do their part.

The most important factor to spiritual Life-change.

 Read 2 Chronicles 34. 

Josiah was only 8 years old when he began his reign over Judah.  At age 16, he began to exercise his faith in the LORD.  By age 20, he was leading his nation in a spiritual cleansing process.  When he became 26, he turned his attention to the repair of the Temple. 

This is a great reminder that spiritual maturity has nothing to do with how old a person is.  Paul told Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because he was young (1 Timothy 4:12). 

As the work proceeded, a copy of the Book of the Law was found!  Obviously, the people had not seen, nor heard, the word of God in a long time.  When Shaphan read the scriptures to King Josiah, he became overwhelmed with conviction.  His concern regarding the lack of attention and obedience to God's word was not only for himself but for the people of his kingdom and that of the northern kingdom of Israel. 

To understand the implications, they sought out the Prophetess Huldah.  She confirmed the king's concerns for the people, yet the judgment would not take place in Josiah's lifetime.  Further, she explained why: "Because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before God when you heard his words..." (v.27a).  

When one's heart is open to hear what God has to say, it is life-changing!  "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12) 

The openness, or tenderness, of the heart toward the LORD is what makes the difference in the results.

Gain from the Pain

 Read 2 Chronicles 33. 

After some 29 years of wonderful and godly leadership from Hezekiah, his son Manasseh became Judah's next king.  Manasseh systematically reversed the spiritual reforms of his father.    He turned from worshiping the LORD to installing every false and evil way. 

1. He not only built altars to the Baals but also to the fertility goddess, Asherah.  When people turn to false worship, moral values are soon lost.

2. He built altars to the "host of heaven".  Astrology and worship of the movement of stars and planets has always been condemned by God as evil (Deuteronomy 4:19).  It is a system that looks to the creation for life guidance rather than the Creator.

3. He led the nation into human sacrifices, including his own sons.

4. He used fortune-telling, omens, sorcery, mediums, and wizards.  These are not amusements for video games, role playing, fantasies of escape, and advice seeking.  They are in fact satanic and rooted in everything that is against the God of heaven.

5. He even carved an idol and set it up as a god.  A piece of inanimate wood that he fashioned became something to which he bowed and paid homage. 

All of these actions resulted in God's anger and judgment.  The Assyrians humiliated him and took him captive.  He lost everything. 

"And when he was in distress, he entreated the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers" (v.12).  God heard his prayer.  "Then Manasseh knew that the LORD was God" (v.13b).  The personal and national restoration began. 

It took the pain of loss and distress to turn his heart from going his own way to surrendering to God's way.  Isaiah described this behavior as true of everyone and the reason the Messiah died on the cross.  "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:6) 

Restoration begins when a person turns from their sin to embrace God's forgiveness.

 

When your world is Threatened

 Read 2 Chronicles 32. 

When our world is threatened we discover the source of our true trust. 

The king of Assyria had conquered the northern kingdom of Israel and then thought that Judah would be no problem.  His tactics included marching into the land with his strong army and then terrifying the city with belittling messages.  The messages he sent attacked the foundations of their trust.  Judah trusted in the LORD and in the leadership of King Hezekiah. 

Sennacherib's powerful forces had handled all others in their path.  However, his fatal mistake with Judah was to think the God of heaven was just one of many faith options. 

When someone states, "We all worship the same God", they make the mistake of Sennacherib. 

The tactic did scare the people.  The threat was real.  Hezekiah did two things that all of us should do when our foundations are under attack:

1. He prepared.  There were things he could do.  At the first word of trouble, he took immediate defensive actions.

2. He prayed.  There were things he could not do.  He found his prayer partner and cried out to God for help. 

In response, God sent an angel to fight for them.  The Assyrian army experienced supernatural defeat.  Sennacherib was assassinated by his own sons.  Hezekiah's experienced peace and blessings. 

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.  They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright."  (Psalm 20:7-8)

 

What your Giving says about you

 Read 2 Chronicles 31. 

Someone once said that we are never more like God than when we give.  In one of the most well-known of all Bible verses, John 3:16 begins with the words, "For God so loved the world that He gave..." 

King Hezekiah led the nation to restore the worship and celebration of the LORD.  The Temple and those who ministered had been marginalized and ignored for a long time.  But now the Temple had been cleaned up and the ministers were back to work again.  However, in order for the ministry to be sustained resources were essential. 

Hezekiah led the people in giving on multiple levels.   They presented the required sacrifices for worship.  They began tithing of all their income.  They practiced generosity with freewill offerings over and above their tithe (v.14). 

The result was abundance for God's house and God's servants (v.10).  The King and the people prospered as a result. 

Too many Christians have never been taught and do not realize that there is a direct connection between a person's spiritual maturity and their financial giving.  Tithing (a tenth) has always been a base standard, before and after the law (Genesis 14, Hebrews 7).  Offerings of generosity are over and above that standard. 

It is our responsibility to make sure that both the place where we worship and those who serve us are well provided for accordingly.

The price of Unity

 Read 2 Chronicles 30. 

In his continuing efforts to restore the nation spiritually, King Hezekiah organized the first celebration of Passover in long time.  He had a heart for those who lived in the northern kingdom of Israel.  They had alienated themselves from worshiping at the Temple.  Not since the kingdom divided after the reign of Solomon had the nation come together for Passover. 

In a kind gesture, he sent out invitations for the northern tribes to come and join in the celebration.  Note that his message was not only to come, but he included a strong exhortation for them to make this a time of repentance and return to the LORD.  "For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him." 

But Israel was so given over to idolatry and false worship that his invitation had no value to them.  Indeed, his offer was ridiculed.  However, that was not true of everyone.  Some did come.  And, even though a few of the ceremonial details were not exactly followed, Hezekiah stepped in with words of grace. 

Unity is a beautiful thing to behold and enjoy.  Jesus prayed for his followers to be one and to love one another. 

Spiritual unity is not based upon a call for corporate organization.  It has a personal price.  It means coming in repentance of sin and acceptance of God's plan.  Jesus conducted an interesting conversation with a woman who flinched because of gender, racial and religious differences.  But the real issue was this, "the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him."  (John 4:23)  That personal turning in faith to Jesus opened the door for fellowship, worship, and unity with other believers.

 

 

4 Steps to Spiritual Restoration

 Read 2 Chronicles 29. 

The ungodly Ahaz died and his son, Hezekiah, became the next king of Judah.  The royal lineage of David and the Messiah continued.  Though he was raised by a father who did not obey the LORD, Hezekiah did.  His father had stopped all worship of God and substituted it with objects of his own making.  The new king loved the LORD and used his position to restore the spiritual life of the nation. 

The Temple had been misused and, evidently, boarded up for years.  The sacrifices, worship and celebrations prescribed by God were no longer practiced.  The Levites had been marginalized and had not been able to fulfill their responsibilities.  There was much work to be done. 

How does one restore a spiritual life that has been corrupted by sin?

1. Internal Consecrating.

There was an intentional work of separating themselves from sin and giving themselves wholly to God.  Purifying their lives and work before the LORD was a sacred responsibility that must come first before they may effectively serve and please God.

2. External Cleansing.

This required the distasteful tasks of cleaning out the filth that lurked behind closed doors.  Ungodly and impure things had been allowed in the Temple and stored there.

3. Sacrificial Giving.

Sacrifices were made as sin offerings for atonement of what had taken place in the past.  Burnt offerings wafted sweet smelling aromas up to God.  Thank offerings were made to celebrate that God had given them a new beginning.  Peace offerings symbolized that reconciliation with God had taken place.

4. Joyful Singing.  

With instruments and voices, the songs of David and Asaph (The Psalms) resounded loudly in praise and worship to the God of heaven. 

"Thus the service of the house of the LORD was restored." (v.35b) 

For the believer in Jesus, our bodies are the Temple of the Holy Spirit.  "Since we have these promises beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of the body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God." (2 Corinthians 7:1)

How to get out of the Hole

 Read 2 Chronicles 28. 

Will Rogers once said, "When you find yourself in a hole, stop digging!" 

This would have been helpful advice for King Ahaz.  At twenty years of age, he wanted to run his own life.  For some inexplicable reason, he thought he knew how to run his life and lead his nation better than the God who created him and gave him his position.  He not only forsook the LORD but then made his own gods.  He worshiped and sacrificed to pieces of metal that he had fashioned. 

God put increasing pressure upon the king to turn his heart back.  Despite defeat, enormous loss, and humiliation, Ahaz hardened his heart.  "In the time of his distress he became yet more faithless to the LORD" (v.22).  Spiritually, he just kept digging the hole deeper and deeper.  

It is interesting to read that even those in the northern kingdom of Israel, who indeed were far from God themselves, acknowledged their sin and guilt.  Though there is no record of repentance toward the LORD, they at least understood their accountability to Him and treated Judah with kindness and mercy. 

God's intent in disciplining us is to call us to stop going our own way and turn back to Him.  He is gracious and merciful to forgive.  As a wonderful father with his children, He wants a relationship with us. 

"All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the LORD.  But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word." (Isaiah 66:2)

What it means to be a Focused Follower

 Read 2 Chronicles 27. 

Jotham proved to be a good ruler for the southern kingdom of Judah.  His many construction projects enhanced the nation.  His military defeat of the Ammonites added to Judah's power and financial strength.  But at the core of his success and achievements was his spiritual discipline. 

"And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD..." (v.2)

"So, Jotham became mighty, because he ordered his ways before the LORD his God." (v.6) 

The word "ordered" (ESV) or "prepared" (KJV) in Hebrew has to do with determination and being fixed, or focused.  He was determined to live his life with a strong sense of accountability to God.  Such living requires moment by moment personal discipline. 

There is no discipleship without spiritual discipline. 

Being a follower of Christ is more than a one-time decision for salvation.  There is a daily dealing with life and the faithful use of the all that God has given to us. 

The beginning of the personal work that is required is seen in the words of the Apostle Paul: "take every thought captive to obey Christ".  (2 Corinthians 10:5b)

It is not how you start that Counts

 Read 2 Chronicles 26. 

Many runners may begin a race in the lead.  Many leaders rise to the top early in their career.  In the final analysis the only assessment that counts is how one finishes. 

King Uzziah began his reign doing all the right things and God blessed him accordingly.  At age 16, he needed a mentor and the LORD provided Zechariah, the prophet, to teach the king the word of God and how to put it into practice.  Early on then, the king made some solid spiritual commitments (v.5). 

1. He set himself to seek God.

A person who desires to live for the LORD must discipline themselves each day, throughout the day.  The Christian life is not merely coming to faith in Jesus but one that cultivates a growing in relationship with Him.  This, as with any relationship, requires time and effort.  Uzziah "set" himself, became determined, to pursue God. 

2. He became a student of God's word.

He sought out and received instruction.  Notice that this was not an academic exercise, but the intent of the teaching was to learn "the fear of God."  Who is He?  What has He said?  What are His expectations of me?  How can I show respect for the LORD in my daily thoughts, words, and actions? 

And, as long as Uzziah maintained these commitments, the LORD blessed him in every aspect of his life. 

The turn in the story is in verse 16.  "But when he was strong, he grew proud, to his destruction."  As a young man, he knew his limitations and willingly acknowledged his dependence on God and others.  But one of the dangers of success and achievement in life is a wrong sense of independence.  Respect and need for God and people can become dispensable.  Living independently of the LORD is the essence of sin itself! 

In Proverbs 30:7-9, Agur wrote: "Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die: Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, 'Who is the LORD?' or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God." 

In order to finish strong in life, the old hymn writer said it best, "I need Thee every hour."

 

Half-heartedness has a Price

 Read 2 Chronicles 25. 

King Amaziah's life may be summed up by the statement in verse 2: "And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, yet not with a whole heart." 

A half-hearted believer is one who knows better but continues to live in disobedience to God.  Instead of adhering to God's word and remaining faithful, they are swayed by selfish pleasures and the culture around them.  The Apostle James referred to such a person as "double-minded".  "For the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.  For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." (James 1:6b-8) 

Amaziah did a right thing, followed by a bad decision.  At each key juncture, God, in His faithfulness, sent a prophet with a specific message.  He listened and responded once.  The next time he was so attached to the fantasies he had procured, that he put his faith in them instead of the LORD.  He turned his back on God and suffered the consequences.  Not only did he lose his life, but the people he around him suffered. 

"Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart." (Psalm 119:2)

How soon we can Forget

 Read 2 Chronicles 24. 

Judah's new 7 year old king had been protected and then mentored by Jehoiada, the Temple chief priest.  Under the previous wicked leadership, the Temple had been neglected and now was in disrepair.  As an adult, King Joash took on the project of restoring Solomon's Temple. 

Evidently, tithing and the additional financial gatherings for the support of the Temple ministry had gone by the wayside.  It was the teaching priest's responsibility to educate the people regarding God's word and His expectations about giving.  To not do so resulted in disobedience on the part of the teachers and the people.  The king's orders were specific.  They were to reestablish the gathering of finances and pay to get the work done quickly. 

The priests did not respond.  So, the king took matters into his own hands.  He had them make a chest and set it outside the Temple gate.  The people were to give as they entered for prayer, worship, and/or to offer sacrifices.  Indeed, this was a tax, established in the law, and not their tithe money.  Finally, the restoration of the house of the LORD was done. 

Unfortunately, once Jehoiada died, Joash listened to ungodly counsel.  The nation plunged headlong into worshiping false gods.  When the LORD sent His prophets to confront the sin, the people refused to listen, even stoning to death Jehoiada's son.  "Thus Joash the king did not remember the kindness that Jehoiada, Zechariah's father had shown him..." (v.22). 

Jehoiada had poured his life and ministry into this young man.  But when Joash was on his own, he seemingly tossed it all away. 

How soon we can forget the spiritual training we have received!  How soon we can forget the life lessons learned!  How soon we can forget the goodness and grace of God to us! 

"But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children's children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments."  (Psalm 103:17-18)

A Prepared Leader Makes a Difference

 Read 2 Chronicles 23. 

The southern kingdom of Judah was being ruled by the wicked and violent Athaliah.  She even slaughtered her own grandchildren to secure her throne.  Only by the grace of God was one very young grandson spared.  The priest's wife at the Temple hid little Joash and began to raise him. 

How this must have grieved the heart of God to see His people subjected to such sinful leadership and encouraged to worship Baal.  The priest, Jehoiada, understood clearly the everlasting covenants God made with the people of Israel and David.  Joash was now the sole survivor of David's lineage and the hope of the nation's future.  But Jehoiada needed to be shrewd in taking steps to overthrow the self-appointed Queen. 

It is obvious that God prepared the hearts of the people for this transition.  They had had enough.  In addition, step by step, this spiritual leader prepared. 

1. He chose the place.  The Temple was a sacred spot and where he had authority.

2. He organized the protection.  From the inside out, he appointed and delegated responsibilities.

3. He distributed the weapons with delegated authority to use them.  These resources were essential to get the job done.

4. Only then did he reveal the solution to the nation's crying need.  He presented 7 year old Joash, gave him his crown, and more importantly "the testimony."  This was a copy of God's word.  It was required of all kings to have their own copy to know and to put into practice according to Deuteronomy 17:18-20.

5. He led the people in getting rid of Athaliah and the altars of Baal.

6. He "made a covenant between himself, all the people, and the king that they should be the LORD's people." 

May we be the LORD's people today in this generation.

Same Family. Different Spiritually. Why?

 Read 2 Chronicles 22. 

With all his brothers killed, the youngest son of Jehoram took the throne of Judah.  King Ahaziah followed in his father's wicked footsteps.  However, verse 3 places the blame on his mother's training, as she was the daughter of Ahab, the king of Israel.  Ahaziah's reign lasted only one year. 

The LORD will allow individuals to go just so far in their rebellion against Him.  The young king listened to godless counsel, made foolish decisions, and the result was death. 

Then, his mother, Athaliah, slaughtered her own family so she could seize the national power of Judah.  Her heart was so given over to satanic control that she killed her own grandchildren.  But, thanks to the quick work of Ahaziah's sister, the king's baby son, Joash, was protected.  This godly woman, wife of the priest Jehoiada, put her own life at risk in hiding the baby in the Temple.  If Joash had been killed, the royal lineage of David would have ended and ultimately, of course, the family of the Messiah. 

God will deal with Athaliah and unfold His plans for Joash in time. 

Two women, a mother and a daughter, one as wicked as anyone in the Bible; the other acted mercifully toward her nephew.  Here also is a brother and a sister, raised in the same household.  One became a wicked king, while the other served God in the Temple.  How can people in the same family be so different spiritually?  Though the parental training is an important influence, and parents will be held accountable for teaching their children to love and obey God, there is more. 

Many faithful believers were not raised in Christian homes.  Many who were raised in Christian families do not follow Jesus today.  Good or bad, one cannot rely on the faith of their parents.  Nor will it be acceptable to blame bad experiences or bad examples for turning away from the LORD.  Each of us is individually accountable to God. 

The words of the Apostle Paul explain how personal this life-changing decision is: "If you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)

 

A parent's greatest Joy

 Read 2 Chronicles 21. 

King Jehoram was raised by a one of the finest, God-fearing kings of Judah.  Being the first born, he inherited the throne.  Yet, his true character became apparent almost immediately.  He married an ungodly woman who had been raised by the wicked King Ahab and Jezebel of Israel.  Next, he slaughtered all his own younger brothers so he alone would possess the wealth his father amassed.  Then, he led the nation into worshiping false gods. 

In response, the LORD sent a message from the Prophet Elijah.  Peace was taken from Judah.  Judah lost some of the surrounding territory previously conquered.  Jehoram lost all his wealth, his family, and his health.  The only reason God did not destroy Judah altogether was due to the eternal covenant promise He made to King David. 

Godly parents do not guarantee godly children.  Proverbs 22:6 is a principle and the hope of Christian parents but not a guarantee.  Children are a heritage and gift from the LORD, not biological accidents (Psalm 127:3).  Many scriptures charge parents to train their children in the word and ways of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:7).  But as the saying goes, "God has no grandchildren." 

Each one must personally come to understand and commit their lives to the Lord.  No one else can do it for them.  Each of us will give an account of ourselves to God (Romans 14:10-12).  All the more reason why parents should do everything they can to know the Bible, teach their own children how to put it into real life, and model godly behavior 24 hours a day.  Perhaps the greatest practice of all is praying for one's children and not giving up on them. 

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4)

 

The Power of Praise

Read 2 Chronicles 20. 

A person's true character is revealed when they are threatened. 

King Jehoshaphat received the news of allied armies coming toward Judah.  A leader who relies on human strength alone would have mustered his own soldiers and called upon neighboring nations to join the fight.  Those who rely on themselves would have thought positive thoughts, made an inspiration talk, and hoped for the best.  A weak person would have caved in, feeling overwhelmed, realizing they did not have the resources to face the challenge. 

Not so with this king.  Yes, he was afraid when he got the bad news.  But his first response was to pray and fast, seeking God's help.  Because his people were being threatened, he called them together for prayer.  In his prayer, we learn a lot about Jehoshaphat's view of God.

-He is the God of heaven.

-He is sovereign and rules over the nations.

-He is omnipotent.

-He has proven His power in the past.

-He hears and answers prayer. 

The king acknowledged his helplessness and that he did "not know what to do.  But our eyes are on you."  In those times of desperation, it is just like God to send a friend with message of hope and encouragement.  Jahaziel delivered such a good word.

-Do not be afraid.

-The battle is not yours but God's.

-Go.

-Stand firm and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf.

-The LORD will be with you.

With those assurances, one could face any challenge in life. 

What did the king do to face the enemy?  He organized the singers to lead and worship the LORD as they marched.  A strange military strategy, if they were relying on themselves.  But their faith was in God.  In one of the most fascinating battles on record, God protected them, destroyed the enemy, and provided more resources than they could carry away in three days of work. 

What threatening challenge are you facing today?  "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:1

Judging others Biblically

 Read 2 Chronicles 19. 

King Jehoshaphat made a bad decision.  He joined with the northern kingdom of Israel in a war when God said, "No."  Only by God's grace did he escape death.  When he arrived back home in Jerusalem, the LORD sent a prophet to rebuke him for what he had done.  However, Jehoshaphat was a good man and loved God.  Much remained for him to do in continuing the reforms he started. 

He personally pursued some people who had been scattered or alienated to bring them "back to the LORD."  Then, he reestablished the nation's judicial system from top to bottom.  Judges were appointed, nationally and locally.  In the past, judgments had been corrupted.  But such injustices would no longer be tolerated in Judah. 

Note the charge to these judges:

1. "You judge not for man but for the LORD."  v.6a

They were to represent the LORD in making their decisions.  That required that they know the word of God and seek to do what is right in God's eyes.  Right judgment is not to be determined by popular opinion, nor by respect of persons. 

2. The LORD "is with you in giving judgment."  v.6b

Judges must make some hard calls.  They are human, too.  They have feelings and even, at times, can second guess themselves.  But people look to them to make a decision.  This is true in the church also.  In Matthew 18:20, when a decision must be made concerning an unrepentant offender in the congregation, and the two or three witnesses have been heard, Jesus said, "there am I among you." 

3. "Let the fear of the LORD be upon you."  v.7a

No judgment is to be handed down lightly, thoughtlessly, or selfishly.  Judicial decisions are accountable to the Source of all authority.  Jesus announced that the Father "has committed all judgment to the Son" (John 5:22).  And later He stated, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (Matthew 28:18).  

4. "Deal courageously." v.11

In light of all the support God has provided to judges (His word, His presence, His authority), they are to serve with bold confidence. 

God, give us these kinds of judges for our nation today.

 

Wise People seek Wise Counsel

 Read 2 Chronicles 18. 

Often during these times, international alliances were secured through arranged marriages between nations.  Such was the case with the godly King Jehoshaphat of Judah and the wicked King Ahab of Israel. 

Ahab asked his son-in-law to join forces and go to war with him.  Jehoshaphat would not agree until first they sought counsel from God.  Ahab turned to his 400 prophets of the false god Baal.  These phony seers even claimed to speak for the God of heaven (v.10-11).  But the LORD allowed "a lying spirit" (v.21) to be the counsel of Ahab's spiritual advisers.  Jesus called Satan "a liar and the father of lies" (John 8:44). 

Wisely, the King of Judah asked for a word from a prophet of the LORD.  Ahab knew of one, but he hated Micaiah because the word of the LORD was always against him.  He knew his life and kingdom were in opposition to the God of heaven, but he sought to go on in that direction anyway.  That is a definition of insanity. 

Ahab did not listen and it cost him his life.  Jehoshaphat went along and narrowly escaped by the grace of God. 

Micaiah's commitment was to the word of God. 

"As the LORD lives, what my God says, that I will speak." 

Sometimes what God has to say is a hard message.  Sometimes those who hear what God has to say will reject it.  But to those who have open hearts to respond to the LORD, His messages are wonderful words of life.

5 keys to a blessed Life

 Read 2 Chronicles 17. 

Everyone wants to enjoy the blessings of God.  Few employ the principles needed. 

Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, followed his father to the throne of Judah.  There is a list of reasons why he was a good king for the people and blessed by God. 

1. "He walked in the earlier ways of his father David."

King Jehoshaphat understood his heritage.  He did not get to where he was by himself, or by some accident.  He was born into a family whose individuals possessed personal faith in God.  It was his ancestor David whom God had chosen to be the royal family for Israel forever.  David had a whole heart for God and this new king had the same desire. 

2. "He sought the God of his father and walked in his commandments."

His faith was more than cultural or ancestral.  Jehoshaphat enjoyed a personal relationship with God.  He inquired of the LORD and His word so he would know how to live and fulfill his responsibilities. 

3. He did not behave like others who did not follow God. 

He lived life and ruled in great contrast to the surrounding cultures. 

4. "His heart was courageous in the ways of the LORD."

Faith was not merely a belief system for Jehoshaphat.  He took bold steps to put God's word into practice.  When he saw something that displeased God, he took action to get rid of the sin. 

5. He ensured peace through preparation.

Nationally, the king maintained peace in the region through amassing military strength.  He maintained personal peace through spiritual discipline. 

The results?

-He became financially blessed.

-He was honored by his people.

-His neighbors experienced the fear of the LORD and respected him.

The Danger of Success

 Read 2 Chronicles 16. 

All stories do not have happy endings.  One may be incredibly successful at some point in their lives and then destroy their legacy later with foolish decisions.  History is replete with examples.  Unfortunately, King Asa was one of those.  He started so well but he did not finish well. 

In his early years, he relied on the LORD to guide and establish him.  But in the latter years, when the northern kingdom of Israel began building a blockade against him, he faltered.  The alliance with a neighbor did not seem to be a violation in itself.  The text is clear, however, that Asa looked to human resources for continued success in the place of relying on God first.  Asa had faced bigger situations than this, but in that prior time he prayed and God gave him victory. 

It is usually not the new challenge that trips us up.  Most often, it is the same one that has been nagging at us for some time. 

There is a difference then in one using resources (personal gifts, abilities, skills, finances, other people) in life versus relying solely on them.  Or, as my friend Dr. John Maxwell has written, "Talent is not enough." 

At this point, what Asa missed most in his understanding of life and his relationship with God was this:

"For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him." 

God is looking (searching) for individuals who need His strong support and will rely on Him with all their heart.

The power of Influence

 Read 2 Chronicles 15. 

Never underestimate the power of your personal influence.  For better or for worse, we influence everyone around us.  For many, eternity is at stake.  How crucial it is then to be careful that God is in control of our lives!  

Asa was a good king in Judah.  His loyalty and dependence upon God had already been proven.  Yet, there was so much more to accomplish with his life and leadership.  After the battle was over, this leader could have claimed that he was tired and need to back off for awhile.  The LORD sent Azariah to speak to the king.  The prophet's message included some basic principles of understanding God and how He works with individuals and nations.  His conclusion: "But you, take courage!  Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded." 

That was all Asa needed in order to energize him and lead the nation to completing the spiritual tasks he started in chapter 14.  He vigorously got rid of those things that displease the LORD.  He repaired those things used to worship God.  When he stepped up, the people followed his lead.  Leadership is influence. 

One person influencing another resulted in the spiritual revival of an entire kingdom.  Whose life can you influence today for God and for good? 

Be encouraged.

Be strong.

Finish the spiritual work.

Seek the LORD with all our heart and soul.

There is a reward for being faithful.

3 Values for life needed Today

 Read 2 Chronicles 14. 

What more information do we need about King Asa than verse 2?  "And Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God." 

There were at least three solid guiding life values evident in this chapter. 

1. Purity.

His life and leadership were in direct alignment with what God wanted done.

He vigorously dealt with the present spiritual needs in getting rid of false worship and demanding obedience to God's word. 

2. Preparation.

Good times do not last forever.  He used this time of peace and prosperity to equip for future needs. 

3. Prayer.

When the test came, he was spiritually ready, and the resources were in place.  Though prepared, the odds against him were still overwhelming.  His trust was not in the intelligence of his planning or the size of his defenses.  His reliance was on God alone. 

"O LORD, there is none like you to help, between the mighty and the weak.  Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you..." (v.11a)

4 timeless principles for a victorious Life

 Read 2 Chronicles 13. 

Abijah became the new king in Judah.  He was a reformer and led the southern kingdom back to full obedience to the LORD.  He could no longer stand by and watch most of God's chosen people live in open sin. 

Previously, God had stopped Abijah’s father from starting a civil war.  This time the LORD would fight for Abijah.  Judah was outnumbered 2 to 1 but that did not matter.  As David's best friend, Jonathan, once declared, "Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few." (1 Samuel 14:6) 

In his speech to the rebels of the north, Abijah raised the following issues:

1. God chose the lineage of David to reign over all these people.

2. The nation divided due to Rehoboam surrounding himself with scoundrels, his youth, and that he was weak as a leader.

3. Jeroboam led the split-off northern kingdom away from God and into idol worship.

4. Jeroboam rid the north of any spiritual leadership that followed the LORD.

 

Abijah's affirmations are timeless principles for a victorious life.

1. There was a personal commitment to God.

"But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him." (v.10) 

2. There was complete obedience to God's word.

"We keep the charge of the LORD." (v.11) 

3. There was submission to God's leadership in their decisions.

"God is with us at our head." (v.12) 

4. There was a conscience dependency upon God.

"Judah prevailed, because they relied on the LORD." (v.18)

What does it take to get your Attention?

 Read 2 Chronicles 12. 

The reason for the failure of Rehoboam in life and as a leader is in the first verse.  He "abandoned the law of the LORD..."  And, as with any person of influence, others followed his example. 

But these were God's people, living on the land that God had given to them, enjoying the blessings of God.  The LORD does not stand by idly while people misuse, abuse or are unfaithful with His stuff.  In the case of nations, God uses opposing nations to pressure or conquer those who refuse to listen to Him. 

The Egyptians threatened to destroy the southern kingdom of Judah.  In God's faithfulness, He sent the Prophet Shemaiah a second time to Rehoboam.  The message from God was short and clear: "You abandoned Me, so I have abandoned you to the Egyptians."  It took this type of pressure and this sharp word from God to finally gain Rehoboam's attention.  He, along with his top leaders, humbled themselves before the LORD in an act of repentance. 

God responded by sparing the people from total destruction.  However, the Egyptians did take "everything" of value that Solomon had amassed and the people lived in servitude. 

1. No one gets away with ignoring or abandoning God's word and His claim on their lives. 

It may seem that way to us as we observe those who live and/or lead in disobedience to God.  But sooner or later the Divine intervention will come.  The Owner of all things will hold each individual accountable, either here or at the Judgment. 

2. The question for all of us is: What does God have to do in order to get our attention so we will listen and respond to Him?

-For many who have hardened their hearts, the loss of home, health, wealth, relationships, etc. appear to have no effect.  God is speaking loudly, but they refuse to listen.

-For many others whose hearts are open, when the pressure or loss comes, they realize that God is their only source of true hope and help.  Their response to Him begins a lifelong personal relationship that can weather any storm.

-For some who have tender hearts toward God, they live expectantly and dependently on the LORD.  So, God does not have to shout to gain their attention.  He has it all the time.  The Prophet Elijah heard the voice of LORD in "the sound of a low whisper." (1 Kings 19:12b)

 

2 warnings that destroy Relationships

 Read 2 Chronicles 11. 

When Rehoboam announced that he would rule harshly, the people, not only did not comply, most of them left his kingdom.  The nation split in two.  In the north, Jeroboam led ten of the twelve tribes and, therefore, retained the name Israel for their kingdom name.  In the south, Rehoboam was king over the tribes of Judah and Benjamin.  They used the name Judah as their kingdom name. 

This prompted Rehoboam to make his second foolish decision.  He mustered his army to launch civil war.  God sent Shemaiah with a message to stop.  Thankfully, this time Rehoboam listened to God's word. 

The LORD handed King Rehoboam an unparalleled opportunity.  He turned it into a disaster.  His enemy was not his fellow Israelites.  His greatest enemy was himself. 

Two warnings for today:

1. Beware of self-importance.  It can lead a person to abuse their position and power, whether as a spouse, a parent, an employee, or a leader.   The sin of pride easily prompts mistreatment of others.  It causes one to consider relationships as dispensable.  

2. Be aware of personal insecurities.  The sin of fear can cause a person to be just as abusive as an ego-maniac.  To defend themselves against any and all threats, insecure people often react to others abruptly, sarcastically, or harshly in order to protect themselves. 

Sometimes, it is hard to initially tell the difference.  The outcomes of broken relationships and lost opportunities can be the same. 

"For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned."  (Romans 12:3)