Not Really

Read

2 Chronicles 25:2, 7-9 “He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, but not wholeheartedly…But a man of God came to him and said, ‘Your Majesty, these troops from Israel must not march with you, for the Lord is not with Israel—not with any of the people of Ephraim. Even if you go and fight courageously in battle, God will overthrow you before the enemy, for God has the power to help or to overthrow.’ Amaziah asked the man of God, ‘But what about the hundred talents I paid for these Israelite troops?’ The man of God replied, ‘The Lord can give you much more than that.’”

Think

In the biblical account of 2 Chronicles 25, we encounter the story of King Amaziah of Judah, a ruler who marched to the beat of his own drum. Despite having a substantial army of 300,000 soldiers, he tried to bolster his forces by hiring an additional 100,000 mercenaries. This decision reflected his reliance on human strength rather than wholehearted trust in God’s power. When a prophet confronted Amaziah, urging him to trust in God and release control, the king listened—at least in that moment. He acknowledged the prophet’s words and experienced God’s blessing in battle. However, Amaziah’s heart soon wavered, enticed by the lavish idols of the Edomites, adorned with gold and jewels.

Another prophet, unwavering in devotion to God, rebuked Amaziah for his idolatry, especially after God had granted him victory. In response, Amaziah played the “authority game,” a tactic familiar to many in positions of power. He challenged the prophet’s right to question him, asserting his own authority and dismissing the prophet’s divine warnings. Tragically, Amaziah’s refusal to heed repeated warnings led to his downfall. Despite God’s repeated attempts to guide him, Amaziah refused to submit to God’s authority, ultimately facing capture and assassination.

Reflecting on Amaziah’s story, we are reminded of the quote of philosopher Fredrick Nietzsche, who spoke of “a long obedience in the same direction” as essential for a meaningful life. Amaziah’s refusal to submit to God’s authority led to his demise, highlighting the importance of trusting in God’s guidance and surrendering our own desires and agendas. We can learn from Amaziah’s mistakes and choose to walk in obedience to God, finding true fulfillment and purpose as we consistently follow him.

Apply

Identify one specific area of your life where you can practice obedience to God’s guidance this week. Take intentional steps to align your actions with God’s will. Write them down.

Pray

Lord, thank you for the reminder that true fulfillment and purpose come from obedience to you. Open my heart to recognize the areas where I may be playing the “authority game,” resisting your guidance and dismissing your wisdom. I surrender these areas to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.