Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
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.
King Jeroboam has rejected God and instituted the worship of two golden calves in an attempt to control his new country's religion. When he's faced with urgent questions of life and death, though, he realises that only the Lord can help him. In a pathetic subterfuge, he has his wife disguise herself and seek out a prophet in Shiloh (verse 2). He has no good news for her: the son for whose life they fear will die, and Jeroboam's whole line will perish (verse 10).
Jeroboam’s cynicism about spiritual matters deserts him when he's faced with personal tragedy. His golden calves have no answer. He thought he could use religion for his own ends, but runs up against the harsh reality of life.
It's sometimes said that there are 'no atheists in foxholes': when they're under fire and in danger, even hardened unbelievers resort to prayer. There's some truth in this: many people who are indifferent to or scornful of faith feel drawn to it at times of crisis – and many lukewarm believers find their faith rekindled under stress. Because of her husband's sin, Jeroboam's wife hears nothing but judgement from God's prophet. She is the exception, though; for most of us, no matter how long away from him we might have been, 'He is near to those who call to him, who call to him with sincerity' (Psalm 145.18).
God, thank you for being near to me even when I feel far from you. Thank you for your grace in hearing my call for help and never abandoning me.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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