A moment of madness: 2 Kings 14.1–22 (Day 305)

Pray

Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.

Read

2 Kings 14 2 Timothy 4 Hosea 7 Psalms 120–122

Daily reflection: 2 Kings 14

Judah's King Amaziah takes over from his father, the murdered King Joash (12.20–21). Like his father, he is commended for doing 'what was pleasing to the LORD', though like him he didn't purge the kingdom of Baal-worship. He begins well, executing his father's murderers but sparing their children (very unlike Jehu or Athaliah). A crushing victory over the Edomites, though (verse 7), goes to his head: he challenges the much greater power of Israel, and in spite of the efforts of King Jehoash to dissuade him, attacks with disastrous consequences (verses 12–14). After 15 years, he too is murdered.

As a story, this would make a great novel or film. But underneath these entwined histories of Judah and Israel – made even more complicated by the similarities between their kings' names! – the writer is concerned with their rulers' relationship with God.

It's very noticeable, though, that there's no direct connection between how successful they are as monarchs and their personal faith. They can do what's pleasing to the LORD, but still act foolishly – like Amaziah – or just be unfortunate. The Bible doesn't lend itself to the idea that if we believe in God and do the right thing, we'll always be successful and comfortable. Life is more complicated than that, and the times when we need faith are when things are going wrong. These stories of kings and their adventures are exciting, but the thread that runs through all of them is the question: were they right with God?

Pray

God, thank you for the stories of your people long ago. Help me to learn from what they did – the good and the bad. Above all, keep me faithful to you no matter what happens in my life. Help me do what's pleasing to you.