2 Chronicles 31-32 Devotional


Introduction

 1st and 2nd Chronicles really are chronicles of the people, the culture, the time and place, of Jesus's ancestors.  It is a remarkable, and inspiring record for the character of God portrayed in this history, as well as man's weakness or inclination to repeat mistakes.  Over and over again, through the rule and reign of different kings, these people seem to reap reward or negative consequences depending on the direction or wisdom of their leadership as well as their individual choices.  

Before I address my points from chapter 31 and 32, you may like to check out more from this ongoing series @ Words From the Wheel where Stacey writes, or @ No Longer Lukewarm where Angela writes, or @ The Musings of Mum where Tatiana writes.  These sisters and I are immensely blessed by endeavoring to read the Bible cover to cover, and take turns blogging as we go.

The Stage for 2 Chronicles 31
The stage for 2 Chronicles 31 is that King Hezekiah has done everything he can think of or manage, to bring the people back into service to God and compliance of God's laws through Moses.  This is a massive organizational undertaking due to the increase in population and geographic distance spanned.

This is a great chapter to study for inspiration to tithe, GIVE, keep faith and courage.  These chapters well illustrate REWARD comes through obedience and faith!!



from  2 Chronicles 31 (KJV):

And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly.
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20 And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the Lord his God.
21 And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.
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The Stage for Chapter 32
After chapter 31 details the lengths, measures, efforts and progress to restore order and prescribed ceremony in the temple for God's honor, and that chapter ends on the note of reward and victory, chapter 32 is a turning point, or a challenge at least.

Naturally, a near-by king in the world hears of the success and riches of these people, God's people.  He rallies his troops and employs a full and organized campaign to try and undermine not only the progress of the good King Hezekiah but also he seeks to dishonor God.  The depths to which he stooped to slander God and His servant Hezekiah, are quite astounding.  

How does Hezekiah deal with it?  He consults with his advisers, and guess what.  He does not JUST PRAY.  He puts feet to his prayers and uses the good brain that God gave him, as well as applied his leadership skills to lift up and encourage the people.  He made preparations and plans, but also encouraged the people when he said (v.7-8a):

from 2 Chronicles 32 (KJV):
Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:
With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.
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Hezekiah and God's faithful were rewarded.  They won!  The evil king seeking to plunder and destroy them, LOST !!
2 Chronicles 32 (KJV):
21 And the Lord sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword.

*If God so honored giving, then, do you think He would do less for us, who are righteous in Christ?
*If God delivered victory to His faithful then, do you think He would do less for us today, who are His in Christ?
*How does knowing God, and having the Old Testament record inspire or encourage you?


Dear Father, I am so grateful for Your Word preserved, and Your mercy and grace, and the miraculous blessing that I know You.  I pray that through the Holy Spirit I will continue to grow, and be used by You.  May I be at your faithful service, as you lead. In Jesus's name I pray, amen.









Comments

  1. Hi Tammy! Great to see you so lovingly sharing your devotionals!!
    I wonder, did you recently leave a comment on my blog? There was a "Tammy" but I didn't make the connection as it didn't link to any identifiable site, and I had one of those moments of not being sure if it was a "real" commenter --- so sorry and some time after just realized , it might have been you? A little embarrassing to ask, but actually if it is you I sincerely apologize and thank you, and hope you will be in touch again !! In any case, please visit and say hi! Blessings and Shalom!!

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    1. I think that it was me. I am sorry that I was unidentifiable. Not too long ago, I actually shared your blog address in a Christian women's ministry (facebook, online) that I am active in. I thought the ladies may like to look around your blog and perhaps learn. Your blog is beautiful, and rich with meaning....I myself LOVE to visit. Thank you for checking out mine recently!! I feel so blessed to be involved in this Blogging Through the Bible endeavor with my blog sisters.... SHALOM dear one!

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