Read 2 Chronicles 21
Highlights:
Jehoram's wicked reign; prophecy of Elijah; Athaliah's reign; death of Jehoiada.
And Jehoiada made a covenant between him, and between all the people, and between the king, that they should be the Lord's people (II Chr. 23:16).
Jehoshabeath, the wife of Jehoiada the priest hid baby Joash, the only surviving descendant of David, and protected him from being murdered by Athaliah. In the seventh year of Athaliah's reign, Jehoiada anointed Joash king and had Athaliah executed. Often in times of great evil, those who truly love and serve God rise to the occasion. Darkness can never extinguish light totally. God always has a remnant set aside to serve Him (Rom. 9:27).
Jehoiada virtually reigned during the adolescent years of young king Joash. As high priest, he returned the nation to the Laws of God, repaired the Temple, and destroyed Baal worship. God used him to overcome many great obstacles. Satan can spend years destroying something. A nation can become so overcome with evil that it might seem beyond saving. A people can become so vexed with ungodly thoughts and actions that they may seem unreachable. However, this man of God dedicated his life to seeing God restored in this nation. If we stand on the side of God, there are no limits to the possibilities of our accomplishments (Matt. 19:26).
With the exception of Samuel, history records no priest equal to Jehoiada. Under his influence, there was strict adherence to the Law of God, and the nation once again prospered. Great men and women make differences in the kingdom of God on earth every day. The evidence is recorded for us that one man dedicated to God transformed a nation. But following Jehoiada's death, Joash soon drifted away from the House of the Lord . . . and wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem (II Chr. 24:18). Even the best examples in life are of no avail if they are not followed.
When we neglect reading the Bible, the Truth we remember often becomes blurred, and we gradually cease to clearly understand the Lord's will. We need the Word of God in our lives every day to keep it fresh and new in our minds and hearts. Stability and strength for the years ahead is achieved by those who become intimately acquainted with His Word and are willing to sacrifice everything necessary in order to remain faithful to His will.
That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death (Phil. 3:10).
Thought for Today:
The result of neglecting the Bible is that we lose our sense of direction from God.
Christ Portrayed:
By Jehoiada, the high priest, who faithfully hid and protected Joash (II Chr. 23:1-11). Jesus is our High Priest (Heb. 5:5-10), and we are hid with Christ in God (Col. 3:3).
Word Studies:
21:9 compassed him in, surrounded him; 21:19 of sore diseases, in severe suffering; no burning for him, no funeral fire to honor him; 22:10 seed royal, royal offspring of the house of David; 23:9 bucklers, small shields; 23:14 Have her forth of the ranges, take her outside beyond the Temple under guard; 24:13 in his state, in its original condition; 24:25 great diseases, intense suffering.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Kay Wagner in memory of Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR) • Country: Finland (5.2 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Finnish and Swedish • Religious freedom • 86% Lutheran; 1% Orthodox; 12% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for the blessings of God upon your family and home (II Sam. 7:29).
Optional Reading: 1 Corinthians 14
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Timothy 1:17
