2 Kings 17:18-20
The LORD became so furious with the people of Israel that he allowed them to be carried away as prisoners.
Only the people living in Judah were left, but they also disobeyed the LORD's commands and acted like the Israelites. So the LORD turned his back on everyone in Israel and Judah and let them be punished and defeated until no one was left.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I’ve been reading the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings, and over and again I’ve seen this phrase… “He disobeyed the LORD and caused the Israelites to sin.” Otherwise, these chapters have been pretty much an account of one king after another and commands of God that were ignored. There were a few who listened – sometimes only partially… but on a whole, these kings were “Burger Kings” – they had things their own way!
I asked myself… “Why is this important? If God felt it should be included in the Bible, what is He trying to show us with these accounts?” The conclusion I came to is found in today’s verses… God loves us and protects us – but He also doles out consequences and punishments when we misbehave. And we need to understand this!
When a child disobeys, they get “time out” or lose their toys for a while. When teenagers break the rules, they are grounded and may lose their car keys, cell phone, and other privileges. When adults break the law, they are arrested – and may go to jail or suffer a fine. And when we sin, sometimes God hangs His head in disappointment and walks away temporarily. Just because we are saved by the blood of Jesus doesn’t mean we get a free ticket, any more than becoming king made those rulers above the laws and directives of God Almighty!
When little children disobey and misbehave, we may place them in “time out” or send them to their room and walk away for a little bit… but we never desert them completely. And God will not totally abandon you, either. But He may very well turn away and leave you to fend for yourself at times, so that you learn to respect His desires and guidance for your life – and seek His forgiveness and restoration.
Whatever you do, remember that God loves you and will care for you… but He may also teach you a few hard lessons along the way. Work hard to stay obedient and to operate within His will. Don’t try to have things your way when you know that God desires something else. And most certainly do not cause others to sin!
Listen carefully for God’s voice. Seek Him in every area of your life… even those that seem small and not worth His time. I assure you, everything about you matters to God! Have you acted like He matters to you lately? Isn’t it time you did?
©2011 Debbie Robus
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