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2 Chronicles-11

From Idolatry to Yahweh: A Devotional Study on 2 Chronicles 11​

Introduction​

The story of King Rehoboam's successor, King Abijah, provides a glimpse into the turbulent period of the divide of the kingdom of Israel. 2 Chronicles 11 chronicles Abijah's ascension to the throne and his efforts to restore worship to Yahweh, after years of idolatry. Let us delve into this passage and explore its spiritual insights and practical applications.

Section 1: Abijah Takes the Throne (2 Chronicles 11:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: Abijah ascended to the throne as King Rehoboam's son, but this came after a succession crisis. The rebellion of the ten tribes against Rehoboam led to the division of the kingdom, with the northern tribes known as Israel, and the remaining two tribes known as Judah. Consider the times in our lives when we have faced division and turmoil. May we remember that Abijah showed us that, through faith, we can rise to become leaders and overcome the chaos.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what times of division have you faced in your life?
  • How has faith helped you overcome turmoil and uncertainty?

Section 2: Abijah's Reforms (2 Chronicles 11:3-5)​

Devotional Thought: Abijah's reforms centered around turning back to worshiping Yahweh. He removed the foreign altars and idols from the temples and repaired Yahweh's altar in Jerusalem. Today, let's reflect on the acts that pull us away from Yahweh and how we can make changes in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there moments in your life when you've've allowed foreign altars to pull you away from Yahweh?
  • List out the habits or activities that pull you away from Yahweh. Are you ready to cast them out and embrace Him wholeheartedly?

Section 3: Abijah's Victory (2 Chronicles 11:6-10)​

Devotidential Thought: Abijah's army, along with the men of Judah, defeated the army of Israel. This was a victory over idolatry and a reminder of Yahweh's faithfulness to His people. Let us hold onto the faithfulness of God, knowing that, through Him, we can conquer the hold that idolatry has on us.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what areas have you witnessed the hold of idolatry over you or your loved ones?
  • How can you trust in God's faithfulness to conquer idolatry?

Section 4: Abijah's Speech (2 Chronicles 11:11-12)​

Devotional Thought: Abijah recounted the history of the conflict between Israel and Judah and affirmed that Yahweh is the God who rescued them from Egypt. This reminder centers Abijah's speech on the history of Yahweh's faithfulness. Let us remember the history of God's faithfulness and hold onto the hope that it brings.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you carry the memory of Yahweh's history of faithfulness into your daily life?
  • Take two examples of God's faithfulness from the Bible or your personal experience, and rededicate your life to Him.

Conclusion:​

The story of King Abijah is a testament of renewal and restoration. It chronicles the efforts of one man to restore faith in Yahweh, and how it results in victory. May we remember the call to return to our first love and dedicate ourselves to Him in all our endeavors. Let us hold onto God's history of faithfulness, knowing that, through His faithfulness, we too can be victorious over our infidelities.