Bible Pathways - May 6, 2005

May 6

 

Read II Kings 14 -- 15

 

In Today's Reading:

 

Reigns of Amaziah, Azariah (Uzziah), and Jotham over Judah; reigns of five of last six kings over Israel

 

Following the death of his father Jehoash, Jeroboam II ruled the northern kingdom of Israel in Samaria for 41 years (see II Kings 14:16-29). However, he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin (14:24). Immorality and idolatry flourished during the reign of Jeroboam II. Finally, God commanded the prophet Amos, from the southern kingdom of Judah, to go to Bethel, a center of golden calf worship, and prophesy the destruction of Jeroboam's kingdom (see Amos 7:8-9). Hosea also spoke out against widespread religious and moral decay during Jeroboam's reign (see Hosea 6:4-10; 10:1-15; Amos 2:6-8; 3:13 — 5:27).

 

For about 30 years the nation enjoyed peace, prosperity, and political prestige unparalleled since the days of David and Solomon. Jeroboam restored the coast (boundaries) of Israel from the entering of Hamath to the sea of the plain, according to the Word of the LORD God of Israel, which He spoke by the hand of His servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet (II Kings 14:25). But God is interested in obedience to His Word more than in political accomplishments.

 

The Israelites were deceived in attributing their prosperity to idols and continued to disregard the Word of God. Thus, immorality and violence continued to permeate the nation (see 17:13-17).

 

After Jeroboam's death, anarchy prevailed and Israel rapidly degenerated even more. Jeroboam was succeeded by his son Zechariah (see 14: 29) who reigned only six months (see 15:8).This was the fourth and last generation of the house of Jehu (see 15:12; also 10:30).

 

About 30 years after Jeroboam's death, the words of the prophets were fulfilled. The northern kingdom was destroyed and its people taken captive by the Assyrians (see 17:1-18). Material success is often very deceptive, as it was for King Jeroboam II. We must not measure men's character by the length of their lives, nor by their material prosperity, for only God knows the secrets of the heart (Psalm 44:21).

 

Surely the goodness and mercy of God should lead us, in gratitude, to do the will of Jesus Christ our Lord. He (the Father) has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son (Colossians 1:13).

 

Christ Revealed:

 

When the Lord struck King Azariah with leprosy and thrust him out from being king (II Kings 15:5-7). This foreshadows the time of Christ's reign when all who ignore the merciful gift of salvation shall be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15).

 

Word Studies:

 

14:10 lifted thee up = made you proud; 14:12 put to the worse = defeated; 14:25 sea of the plain = the Dead Sea; 15:5 a several house = a separated house; 15:20 exacted = assessed, taxed; 15:25 in his room = in his stead, place.

 

Prayer Needs:

 

Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Henry Rogers · BPM Staff: Diana Hash · Government Officials: Rep. Jim Ramstad (MN) and Sen. Richard Shelby (AL) · Country: United States (273 million) in North America · Major languages: English and Spanish · Religious freedom · 51% Protestant; 22% Roman Catholic; 17% other religions; 4% cults; 3% Jewish; 2% Eastern Orthodox; 1% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Thank the Lord that you have no need to fear. Trust Him one day at a time (Matthew 6:33-34).

 

Optional Reading: Romans 9

 

Memory Verse for the Week: I Thessalonians 5:22