Bible Chapter: II Kings 11 & 12

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    In the spiritual battle, there are always attempts to thwart God’s plans and prove that God is either a liar or too weak to follow through with what He promises.  Here there was an attempt to prevent the line of King David to continue.  The life of Joash was spared and he eventually became the king.  God used a high priest, Jehoiada, to see that Joash was put on the throne and helped him in his devotion to the Lord.  Joash was a good king and served God.  Unfortunately, when Jehoiada died, Joash turned away from God.  This eventually brought his death.
    Joash did oversee the repairs of the Temple.  They collected much money and hired people to repair what has been allowed to fall apart.  He did accomplish many good things.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    What I see in the life of Joash is that he was willing to be influenced for good.  But, he was also influenced for evil.  It appears that he never really committed to God in his heart.  He never removed the high places of idol worship.  And when the high priest died, he quit doing what pleased God and began serving idols.  The application for life is that each person must make their own personal commitment to Jesus and serve Him from their heart.  If it is only going through the motions or trying to please some person, when the going gets tough the so-called commitment to Jesus will disappear.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Get serious about really serving God.  Recognize the importance of the real relationship God wants to have with each individual person.  Serve and obey God because He is worthy.  Then, when the challenges of life come, you will have something solid for your foundation.