Chapter 317 of 1163

2 KINGS 12

Young Jehoash was fortunate to have as his counselor Jehoiada the priest, husband of the woman who had saved the king’s life (2 Chron. 22:11). Jehoiada gave the king God’s Word (2 Kings 11:12) and taught him how to obey it. The secret of success in any venture for God is to honor His Word (Josh. 1:8). Do you let others strengthen you in the faith, and do you appreciate their ministry to you?

An idol-worshiping nation had allowed the temple to deteriorate. When we do not love God, we neglect the things important to God. A box by the altar was the ideal place for taking an offering. The sacrifices speak of our Lord’s gracious work of redemption, and if that does not motivate us to give, nothing will (2 Cor. 8:9).

Jehoiada’s death left Jehoash alone, and he led the nation back into sin (2 Chron. 24:15ff.). His religious zeal had not been very sincere. The king forgot the kindness of the high priest and even murdered his son. Jesus referred to this event in Matthew 23:34–35. It is not enough to promote religious works; we must have true devotion to God in our hearts. If your faith is “propped up” by others, what will you do when the “props” are gone?

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