Wednesday: Dependence on the God above All

BIG IDEA: “Moving On” from God is hell (in this life and the next). Moving on with God touches heaven.

Scripture:  2 Chronicles 16:7-10 (ESV)

"At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said to him, “Because you relied on the king of Syria, and did not rely on the Lord your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped you. Were not the Ethiopians and the Libyans a huge army with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet because you relied on the Lord, he gave them into your hand. For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him. You have done foolishly in this, for from now on you will have wars.” Then Asa was angry with the seer and put him in the stocks in prison, for he was in a rage with him because of this. And Asa inflicted cruelties upon some of the people at the same time."

Hanani’s rebuke of Asa reveals a critical lesson: reliance on human wisdom rather than divine guidance leads to strife and conflict. Asa’s previous victories attributed to his faith in God contrast starkly with the folly of placing trust in earthly alliances. Asa’s response to Hanani further exemplifies the consequences of departing from godly dependence.

The passage reminds us of God’s continual readiness to support those who rely on Him. Asa’s misplaced trust results not only in military defeat but also in internal discord, demonstrating the far-reaching effects of excluding God from decision-making processes. This serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking divine counsel over human solutions.

Asa’s story warns against the danger of reacting with pride or anger when confronted with our failures. It encourages humility and a return to dependence on God as the source of true wisdom and strength. Through Asa's experience, we learn that God’s eyes constantly seek to support us when we place unwavering trust in Him.

Action Step:  Identify a situation where you are relying on human solutions. Pray and seek God’s guidance, asking for His wisdom and strength.

Prayer:  Lord, I confess my dependence on human strength instead of Yours. Teach me to seek Your guidance in all things and trust in Your support. Forgive me, and help me to rely on You completely. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Song of the Day: "Better Is One Day" by Matt Redman

Better is One Day | Live | The Block Worship