2 Chronicles-28
A Tale of a Wicked King: A Devotional Study on 2 Chronicles 28
Introduction
In the pages of the Bible, we meet characters who embody different aspects of our human nature. King Ahaz of Judah, in 2 Chronicles 28, provides a chilling picture of the human tendency towards wickedness. As we delve into this chapter, let's learn from the example of Ahaz's wicked ways and draw nearer to a righteous path in Christ.
Section 1: Ahaz's Wickedness (2 Chronicles 28:1-4)
Devotional Thought: Ahaz made idols, practiced divination and sacrificed to them, despite the Lord's repeated warnings against idolatry. We witness the dangers of disobedience and rebellion against God's will. Let's take a moment to reflect on our own proclivity towards rebelliousness and seek God's guidance to avoid similar pitfalls.
Reflection Questions:
- Are there areas of your life that fall short of God's standards?
- What steps can you take to avoid idolatrous tendencies and draw closer to God's will?
Section 2: Ahaz's Fall (2 Chronicles 28:5-8)
Devotional Thought: God chastised Ahaz and the people of Judah in response to their waywardness. The Assyrians sacked 40 of Judah's cities and carried their people into exile. As we witness the wages of wickedness, let's remember God's promise to protect those who follow His will. Let's return to God's righteous path and seek His divine protection.
Reflection Questions:
- How has God's divine protection been evident in your life?
- How can you draw nearer to God's protection and avoid the consequences of wickedness?
Section 3: Ahaz's Response (2 Chronicles 28:9-27)
Devotional Thought: Yet, despite chastisement and divinely sentexile, Ahaz remained obstinate and disobedient. He refused to seek God's help and preferred to seek the help of the king of Syria and the king of Israel. Let's take a moment to reflect on our own stubbornness and shortsightedness, and the potential negative consequences. Let's choose to follow God's guidance staunchly.
Reflection Questions:
- How often do you make decisions based on your own vision, rather than seeking God's divine guidance?
- How can you learn to seek God's guidance interactively and diligently?
Section 4: Conclusion: A Call to Repentance (2 Chronicles 28:28-29)
Devotional Thought: The prophet Oded urged the people of Judah to repent and seek God's protection during their captivity. Let's take a moment to reflect on our own spiritual journey and strive to seek God's path instead of our own willfully.
Reflection Questions:
- Are there areas of your spiritual journey that need repentance and renewal?
- How can you foster a consistent relationship with God, avoiding the example of Ahaz?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional study on 2 Chronicles 28, let's embrace the lessons of Ahaz's wickedness. His story can help us appreciate God's mercy and guidance and reflect on our spiritual journey. Let's draw nearer to God's path and strive to avoid the dangers of wickedness and disobedience. In Christ, we find the way, wisdom, and will to avoid Ahaz's mistakes and to follow a righteous path.