Sunday, May 7, 2023
King Asa had some godly influences in his family line, and he was actually one of the best kings in the Bible. He prayed one of the greatest prayers found in the whole Old Testament: “And Asa cried out to the Lord his God, and said, ‘Lord, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God, for we rest on You, and in Your name we go against his multitude. O Lord, You are our god; do not let man prevail against You!'” (2nd Chronicles 14:11) When he became king, he tore down idols, preached God’s Word to the people and strategically built up the cities.
Thirty-six years into his reign, though, Asa made this deal with Syria and won a battle. While everyone was high-flying, a prophet approached the king with a message of judgment … “Because you relied on the king of Syria, and did not rely on the Lord you God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped you … You have done foolishly in this, for from now on you will have wars.” (2nd Chronicles 16:7-10).
The things that work for us away from God often don’t work out in the long run, not really. Asa’s smart strategy paid off, but he was the loser in the end. Sometimes, we’ll trust God for big things, but otherwise, we try to figure it out ourselves. These medium sized problems are what often indicate where we really are in the Lord. We just try to keep people happy, and it can work … for a little while, and then we’re left with nothing. The truth of our trust in God will always come out in theend.
You are loved, Pastor Don
Cornerstone Worship Center 