December 1, 2023
What does it say?
After God’s warning not to attack Israel, Rehoboam realized Judah was vulnerable and began to build its defenses.
What does it mean?
With the kingdom divided, Judah immediately became vulnerable to invasion. Rehoboam, prevented by God from attacking the much larger Israel, fortified his defenses in the hope of defending what remained. But in all of this, Rehoboam missed what was most important – he never submitted himself to God. Instead, he put his faith in his cities and his armies. This son of Solomon who had already lost so much repeated his father’s sin and set Judah on a course for destruction.
How should I respond?
Submission to God can be difficult, especially when you experience circumstances that are not what you expected or hoped for. In those moments, there is a tremendous temptation to do what seems right in your own opinion. Even so, God asks you to give up control and rely on Him. With what issue are you still striving to produce your own outcomes? Will you completely give that to the Lord today? Focus on submitting to Him in every part of your life. Then leave the results to the One who knows you better than you know yourself!