Tuesday, October 22 – 2 Chronicles 13, 14 – Additional Reading: Prophets and Kings, Chapter 7, “Jeroboam”
1. How did Abijah show his trust in God when facing Jeroboam’s threat? (2 Chronicles 13:12)
2. What actions did Asa take to promote true worship in Judah? (2 Chronicles 14:2-5)
3. How can we apply Asa’s prayer when facing difficulties? (2 Chronicles 14:11)
Commentary and Reflection:
In 2 Chronicles 13, we observe a confrontation between Abijah, king of Judah, and Jeroboam, king of Israel. This passage highlights a conflict between two sides of God’s people, but what stands out most is Abijah’s reliance on God. Though he was not without flaws as a king, he recognized that Judah maintained God’s favor because they had remained faithful to the true worship at Jerusalem. Meanwhile, Jeroboam had introduced idolatry and false worship into Israel.
One important point to note is that although Abijah was facing an army far larger than his own, he did not rely on military strength but placed his trust in the Lord (2 Chronicles 13:12). In the critical moment of battle, Abijah called on God, and God intervened, granting him victory over Jeroboam. This story serves as a reminder that God fights for those who place their confidence in Him, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
In 2 Chronicles 14, Asa, the son of Abijah, becomes the king of Judah and initiates a period of spiritual renewal. He removes the pagan altars and encourages the people to seek the Lord and follow His commandments (2 Chronicles 14:2-4). Because of this, God grants Asa peace in the early years of his reign. When the Ethiopians invade Judah with a massive army, Asa, like his father, seeks God’s help through prayer. Asa acknowledges that their strength is insignificant compared to God’s power, and God responds by giving them victory (2 Chronicles 14:11).
These two chapters provide two significant lessons:
- Faithfulness to God brings His intervention: Both Abijah and Asa faced overwhelming challenges, but in both instances, God displayed His might because these kings sought Him and trusted in His power. This principle remains true today. When confronted with spiritual, emotional, or physical challenges, we can be assured that our strength comes not from our abilities but from our trust in the Almighty God, who fights on our behalf.
- The need for ongoing reform: Asa didn’t just experience peace due to his trust in God; he also understood the importance of removing sinful influences and restoring true worship. In the same way, we need to be vigilant about identifying areas in our lives that have drifted from God and bring them back to Him. This requires continuous spiritual renewal, brave decisions, and constant reliance on God to guide us.
Today, remember that the same God who fought for Abijah and Asa is with you in your battles. May His peace, strength, and guidance be with you in every step, and may you trust in His power to give you victory, no matter the size of the challenge.