2 Kings 3 - War with Moab

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Click to read 2 Kings 3

Synopsis

Joram was Ahaziah's brother. As he became king of Israel, he continued in sinful leadership. Although he did not follow exactly the ways of Ahab and Jezebel, he did worst to cling on to the ways of Jeroboam who instituted idol worship in the nation. Like Jeroboam, Joram turned the people's heart from God as he led them into idol worship again.

When the Moabites revolt against Joram, he called on Jehosaphat to join hands to fight against them. As Edom was controlled by Judah, the king 0f Edom also came in support. Jehosaphat had the presence of mind to seek guidance from Elisha and for his reverence, God help the coalition to destroy the Moabites. Though they were on a winning streak, when they saw the king of Moab sacrificed his own crown prince, they withdrew and left. Their failure to completely destroy the Moabites led to many other battles that they had to fight with then over and over again; consequences of not completing the task after God gave them victory.

Major Verses

V9-11 - In spite of their sinfulness, when Joram came to a dead end in their plan, he blamed God for leading them there. Jehosaphat still had the presence mind to want to seek guidance from God and thus asked if there was a true prophet of God in Israel. This showed the dire state that Israel was in then - the prophets of God were gone as the king did not believe what they had to say.

What I learn

For those who continue in their sins, they frequently blame God for their misfortunes. Instead of repenting, they choose to ignore Him. We must be careful not to allow this spirit of blaming God (or any one else) to take a hold of us. Instead, always learn to depend upon Him and seek His guidance.

V13-12 - Joram's words to Elisha showed his contempt for the Lord. Elisha told him in his face that he was giving favor to Jehosaphat who was more Godly. And on the account of Jehosaphat's attitude towards God, Elisha proclaimed that the Lord would give them victory over the Moabites. Thus was Joram saved.

What I learn

Throughout the biblical records, God has always been giving chances to sinners to repent and return to Him. In this instance, Joram's was given a victory which was on the account of Jehosaphat's faithfulness to God. God gives favor to those who are around God's obedient children to demonstrate His love and power, in hope that it will drive them to reconciliation with Him.

V26-27 - The victory was at hand and yet Joram and Jehosaphat did not completely destroy the Moabites after seeing the king of Moab sacrificed his crown prince. They were frightened of the fury that Moab had against them and retreated to their land. Like their forefathers, they left the enemy live and eventually had to pay a price as Moab fought many more battles against Israel.

What I learn

We must finish the task that the Lord has for us. Many times we know what He wants us to do, but we do not finish the work. There is a consequence and it will return to haunt us. Let us learn to obey the Lord completely and finish the job.

Summary

While Joram continued to lead his nation in sinful ways, God gave them victory over the Moabites on the account of Jehosaphat's faithfulness. And yet, both Joram and Jehosaphat did not finish the job of mopping up and destroying the Moabites, only to find them coming back to attack them in the future.

Up next...

Elisha demonstrates God's power.....coming up on 14th April.

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