God moves the pieces

“But as for you, be strong and courageous, for your work will be rewarded.”2 Chronicles‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

These words were a part of a ‘word from the Lord’ to King Asa of Judah, who ruled from around 911-870 BC. Asa succeeded his father Abijah. He was a godly king for 35 years and then became arrogant and jailed the prophet of the Lord for rebuking him in around his 36th year of reigning. He brought Judah back to the worship of the Lord and removed corrupt worship practices however he tolerated heathen gods.

The above word was given him at the beginning of his reign and he had peace for 36 years. In the 36th year he had an enemy come against him and he did not seek the Lord but resolved it by taking all the gold and silver from the house of the Lord and his palace and giving it to Ben-Hadad of Aran who ruled in Damascus to create a treaty and have him assist Asa against his enemy. It worked but the prophet Hanani came and rebuked him and Asa became angry. God’s word said,’ because you did not seek the Lord now you will continue to have war.’ In his 41st year Asa developed serious foot disease but still he did not seek the Lord. He had become a proud man.

I am watching various leaders in the world seek longevity of tenure in their rule. Some do it by legalising their rule by creating laws, some control and contrive. Macron from France looked like losing his rule to the far right but now is clawing his way back. What compromises will he make?

When we resort to carnal ways we will live in fear and end badly. In Israel there is a push to remove Netenyahu, however, while they are at war wirh Hamas and Hezbolah it is probably not a good idea. Political upheavals whist at war is a destabilising force. Praise God He is involved and we can trust Him. We play our war games and contrive to control but God moves the pieces. Amen!