2 Chron 16:7 At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said to him: “Because you relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Aram has escaped from your hand.”
Commentary says, “All in all, Asa was a good man who did not finish well.” I cannot think of a sadder epitaph. And when the seer points out Asa’s missteps, instead of humbling himself (which is incredibly difficult), he hardens his heart and gives himself over to anger. He did not finish well.
2 Chron 16:9a “For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him….”
I know that I am guilty of similar actions. I know that there are times when I give in to fear and seek human allies instead of my Savior. I know how hard it can be in the face of my own folly to humble myself instead of giving in to anger. I know I have work to do so that I can finish well.
2 Chron 16:9b “…You have done a foolish thing, and from now on you will be at war.”
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that I must always keep my eyes, mind, and heart on You so that I can finish well in Your sight. Lord, I am human and fallible, prone to fear and missteps, but I love You more than anything. Help me always to focus on You so that I can finish well. Draw me closer. Amen.
2 Chron 16:10 Asa was angry at the seer because of this; he was so enraged that he put him in prison. At the same time Asa brutally oppressed some of the people.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.