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1994-03-02
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19468
* Asa seeks the aid of the Syrians, His death.
- A plain and faithful reproof was given to Asa by a prophet of
the Lord, for making a league with Syria. God is displeased when
he is distrusted, and when an arm of flesh is relied on, more
than his power and goodness. It is foolish to lean on a broken
reed, when we have the Rock of ages to rely upon. To convince
Asa of his folly, the prophet shows that he, of all men, had no
reason to distrust God, who had found him such a powerful
Helper. The many experiences we have had of the goodness of God
to us, aggravate our distrust of him. But see how deceitful our
hearts are! we trust in God when we have nothing else to trust
to, when need drives us to him; but when we have other things to
stay on, we are apt to depend too much on them. Observe Asa's
displeasure at this reproof. What is man, when God leaves him to
himself! He that abused his power for persecuting God's prophet,
was left to himself, to abuse it further for crushing his own
subjects. Two years before he died, Asa was diseased in his
feet. Making use of physicians was his duty; but trusting to
them, and expecting that from them which was to be had from God
only, were his sin and folly. In all conflicts and sufferings we
need especially to look to our own hearts, that they may be
perfect towards God, by faith, patience, and obedience.
19482
* Jehoshaphat promotes religion in Judah, His prosperity.
- Jehoshaphat found his people generally very ignorant, and
therefore endeavoured to have them well taught. The public
teaching of the word of God forms, in all ages, the great method
of promoting the power of godliness. Thereby the understanding
is informed, the conscience is awakened and directed. We have a
particular account of Jehoshaphat's prosperity. But it was not
his formidable army that restrained the neighbouring nations
from attempting any thing against Israel, but the fear of God
which fell upon them, when Jehoshaphat reformed his country, and
set up a preaching ministry in it. The ordinances of God are
more the strength and safety of a kingdom, than soldiers and
weapons of war. The Bible requires us to notice the hand of God
in every event, yet this is little regarded. But let all employ
the talents they have: be faithful, even in that which is
little. Set up the worship of God in your houses. The charge of
a family is important. Why should you not instruct them as
Jehoshaphat did his subjects, in the book of the law of the
Lord. But be consistent. Do not recommend one thing, and
practise another. Begin with yourselves. Seek to the Lord God of
Israel, then call upon children and servants to follow your
example.