Verse 20: He was thirty-two years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem eight years and, to no one’s sorrow, departed. However they buried him in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.
After King Jehoshapat had died, his eldest son, Jehoram, took his place as King over Judah. King Jehoram had six younger brothers who had a lot going for them. They had silver, gold, precious things, and fortified cities in Judah. All seemed to be going well until King Jehoram killed all of his brothers, forced his people into idolarty, and did many hainus acts in the sight of God.
Unfortunately for King Jehoram, things quickly turned sour for him. The Edomites revolted against Judah. The Philistines and the Arabians also came against Judah and invaded it. They took away his possessions, his wives, and his sons, except for his youngest son, Ahaziah.
On top of all of these turmoil, the Prophet Elijah's words regarding King Jehoram's intestines came true. For two years, Jehoram suffered an incurable intestinal disease which resulted in his death. He was forty.
Because of his disobedience and cruelty, his people didn't even burn incense for his funeral. As our key verses (20) concluded Jehoram's life story, he was not even buried where Kings were buried. What a tragic story!
Anyone is susceptible to walk in Jehoram's shoes. We have a sinful nature that says, "me first." Jehoram represented a classic dictatorship model--striving for power and control, even at the expense of loved ones. We can easily succumb to these influences and negate what's important. Are we shining as lights to those around us so that they can see Jesus, or are we doing it for self-gratification and prestige?
Prayer: Lord, thank you for empowering us by your presence through the Holy Spirit. Thank you for your Word, for it is our guide in this dark and selfish world. Help us to be your agents of your love and grace. Take away any selfish motive that we have when influencing others for your Kingdom.
No comments:
Post a Comment