|
II Chronicles 30:1-31:21, Romans 15:1-22, Psalm 25:1-15, Proverbs 20:13-15
“So the messengers went from city to city throughout Ephraim and Manasseh and as far as Zebulun. But for the most part they were received with laughter and scorn. However, some from the tribes of Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun turned to God and came to Jerusalem. But in Judah the entire nation felt strong, God-given desire to obey the Lord’s direction as commanded by the king and his officers.” II Chronicles 30:10-12
King Hezekiah sent out letters imploring people to reject being stubborn like their fathers and to turn back to the Lord. He was trying to bring unity in the kingdom and bring people back under God’s Lordship so His blessing would follow. Our scripture picks up with their reactions. It was so sad that so many laughed and thought it was ridiculous to serve the Lord. Sounds like a lot of people today. They can’t see that their rejection of God and their lifestyle put them in a bad place. I’d like for us to be encouraged to see that although the majority thought serving God was a joke, many did come back with ready hearts. Keep reaching out, keep serving and loving people, keep pointing them to Jesus. The ones who need to come will. Do not be discouraged by rejection; it isn’t you, sadly, they are snubbing Jesus.
PRAYER: Lord, I pray for the lost to be found. Give them a desire to know and serve You. Point me toward those who are ready Lord and give me a word for them. Help me to keep an open heart and shield me from the discouragement of rejection and being made fun of. In Jesus’ name, amen.
|
