2 Chronicles 11
-Chapter eleven begins with the heeding of the prophetic warning
of Shemaiah, the man of God, to Rehoboam and Judah NOT to go up against the Northern Kingdom and their
relatives in war. Thankfully, the kingdom listened to the words of the LORD and
temporary peace ensued (2 Chronicles 11:1-4). After this, the king built cities
of defense in Judah and strengthened the nation in the event that there may be attacks
and future war. Benjamin and Judah remained loyal to the royal line of David, as
well as all the priests and Levites, and stood with Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:12-13).
We find that Jeroboam, in the Northern Kingdom, had excluded them from serving as
he unrighteously set up his own priestly system in his own high places for the satyrs
and for the calves of idolatry, which he had made (2 Chronicles 11:14-15). “Those
from all the tribes of Israel who set their hearts on seeking the LORD God of Israel
followed them (the priests and Levites) to Jerusalem, to sacrifice to the LORD God
of their fathers (2 Chronicles 11:16).” These people strengthened the kingdom of
Judah, as you can imagine, and lent their full support for three years (2 Chronicles
11:17, we will see why support waned in the next chapter as Rehoboam forsakes the
law of the LORD, 2 Chronicles 12:1-2).
-The rest of the chapter delineates Rehoboam’s choice in wives
and his intention to make a grandson of Absalom king after his departure. This son
was named Abijah, and he was the son of Rehoboam’s favorite wife, Maacah (2 Chronicles
11:21-22). Rehoboam acted wisely in strengthening the family with his provision
for food and stability in fortifications during this time (2 Chronicles 11:23).
-*Application* It is always a sign of wisdom when we heed the
word of the LORD. This will keep us from danger and disaster in our lives. While
Rehoboam, was not perfect, at this time he did turn to the LORD rather than his
own pride in matters as we see here in this chapter. Because of that, God blessed
him and his fractured kingdom with the loyalty of the priests, his own family, the
tribes of Judah and Benjamin, and the true worshipers of Yahweh. This is so important
in the economy of God. Whereas Jeroboam went his own way in anger and frustration
and pride, Judah remained somewhat faithful to the promise, and God blessed that.
He will bless your life too when you seek after Him and His righteousness. Obey
the Word of the LORD and follow Him wherever He takes you.
Verses to Memorize: 2
Chronicles 11:4, 14
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