1 Kings 15:11 Asa did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as his father David had done.
Asa was apparently a pretty good king for most of his reign. But commentary points to 2 Chronicles, which details the latter part of his reign and concludes, “All in all, Asa was a good man who did not finish well.” How incredibly sad to not finish well. Toward the end of his life and reign, he hardened his heart towards God. There was so much potential, but he did not finish well.
1 Kings 15:13 He even deposed his grandmother Maakah from her position as queen mother, because she had made a repulsive image for the worship of Asherah….
As I was typing this reflection, Matt 25:23 came to mind. It is part of the Parable of the Talents, and the master replies, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” This is what I want to hear at the end of my life—well done. You finished strong.
1 Kings 15:14 Although he did not remove the high places, Asa’s heart was fully committed to the LORD all his life.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You that my relationship with You is stronger now than it has ever been. Thank You for the reminder that it’s not just living well that is important. It’s important to finish well, too. Lord, I make mistakes, missteps, and misjudgments every single day. Help me to keep seeking You, to keep aligning my heart to Yours. Help me to finish well, still seeking Your heart with all that I am. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Kings 15:23 …In his old age, however, his feet became diseased.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.