This passage will take us onward from Rehoboam and Jeroboam. Starting with the new king in Judah, the southern kingdom, we have Rehoboam’s son, Abijam. We know Jeroboam’s reign was 22 years from a previous reading, so Abijam steps up when Jeroboam still has four years left in the northern kingdom.
If you’re a visual person like me, you might want to find a chart or something that gives the timelines of these kings and how they overlap. Interesting fact here–Abijam is related to two sons of King David – his mother’s relative was Absalom and his father’s relative was Solomon.
Abijam doesn’t have long to be king, and I’m guessing he was probably killed in battle after two years of fighting with the north. His son Asa steps in next, and it must have been like a breath of fresh air. For his 41-year reign, he did what was pleasing to the LORD. He may have ruffled some feathers with all the evil “things” he destroyed, but God was pleased.
In the northern kingdom of Israel, the first king after Jeroboam was his son, Nadab. That didn’t last long either because the prophecy of the LORD was fulfilled when the prophet Ahijah’s own son, Baasha, kills Nadab and takes over as king. (You’ll recall it was Ahijah’s word from God in 1 Kings 14:12-14.)
Baasha was no better than Jeroboam and did what was evil in the LORD’s sight. Maybe he never asked questions about “why” he was killing Nadab and the rest of Jeroboam’s family. He was acting on God’s behalf and didn’t even realize it.
What does that say about what may be going on behind the scenes in our own lives? How is God using us? He may be using us in ways we’ll never know. I can tell you for certain I’ve been used on an occasion or two. It wasn’t until years later that someone shared with me what an impact my story had made on their life. There have been more than one “someones.” I’ll let them remain anonymous.
I give God the credit for so many things that come out of my mouth. I sometimes marvel at some of the brilliant things I say. I am NOT bragging. I could not in a million years have said some of these things so eloquently or at just the right moment. God has used me. It’s exhilarating!
I’m sure he’s used you, too. Can you think of a time? Spend some time with this one, asking God to reveal this insight to you. Then, be sure to be listening for his answer. It may come from him or someone you least expect.
Life moves on whether we want it to or not. We see in this passage how each kingdom passed from king to king. In the popular movie, Lion King, it was known as the “circle of life.” In our lives, we have seasons. Seasons when we’re single, married, parenting, empty nesters, employed, unemployed, retired, etc.
Each season is precious. Each season is a blank canvas for us to create the life we live, the lives we touch, the impact we make. Let’s not try to move on too quickly. Take time to savor your season.
Let’s pray …
Lord, thank you for how you are working in my life. I am honored to be used by you. Continue to fill me with your spirit so I can be the beacon of hope who helps lead many people back to you. Thank you for such a beautiful season. I cherish growing closer to you each day. Shine through me today and always. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
