Daily Devotional for Sunday, May 11

Ahaziah, Judah’s Sixth Ruler

“And the inhabitants of Jerusalem made Ahaziah his youngest son king in his stead: for the band of men that came with the Arabians to the camp had slain all the eldest. So Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king of Judah reigned,” 2 Chronicles 22:1.

Ahaziah, Judah’s sixth ruler, is a figure whose life offers profound lessons in the intricate dance between human frailty and divine sovereignty. In today’s passage, we glimpse into the turbulent reign of Ahaziah, marked by tragedy and judgment.

Ahaziah ascended to the throne of Judah following the death of his father, Jehoram. However, his reign was short-lived, marred by unwise alliances and spiritual compromise. Like many leaders before him, Ahaziah’s choices reflected a heart divided between obedience to God and the allure of worldly power.

Despite his royal lineage, Ahaziah’s life serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of forsaking God’s ways. His ill-fated alliance with the house of Ahab, infamous for its idolatry and wickedness, sealed his doom. God’s judgment swiftly fell upon Ahaziah as he met his demise at the hands of Jehu, a ruthless instrument of divine retribution.

Yet, even in the midst of Ahaziah’s downfall, we find glimpses of God’s sovereignty at work. Through Jehu, God executed justice upon Ahaziah and the house of Ahab, fulfilling the prophecy spoken against them. In this we see that God’s purposes are never thwarted by human folly. He remains firmly in control, orchestrating events according to His divine will.

As we reflect on Ahaziah’s life, let us examine our own hearts and motives. Are we seeking the approval of men at the expense of our obedience to God? Are we compromising our faith for the sake of temporal pleasures or ambitions? 

CHALLENGE

May Ahaziah’s tragic end serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of straying from God’s path. Let us choose today to wholeheartedly follow Him, trusting in His sovereignty and resting in His unfailing love.

Steven Ridings