2 Chronicles 25
Scripture:
1 Amaziah was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years. His mother’s name was Jehoaddin; she was from Jerusalem.
2 He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, but not wholeheartedly.
Observation:
It is true that actions speak louder than words, however, sincere actions are more powerful than superficial ones. Over and over again scripture urges us to give ALL as we seek and serve the Lord. This chapter helps us understand why this is such an important challenge for us. Amaziah started off strong by doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord. Unfortunately, he did not do so wholeheartedly, which later led to him rejecting the Lord. This reminds me of basketball practice in high school. I have seen plenty of coaches complain of players just going through the motions instead of really trying to get better. As Spirit-Empowered Men we must guard our hearts from going through the motions of the traditional Christian life. It’s more than just doing the right things for the sake of doing the right things. We must focus our hearts on glorifying God in everything we do. I encourage you to give your all and to live wholeheartedly for the Lord.
Application:
- Personal Application: Doing what is right is one thing, doing what is right for the right reasons is a completely different experience. Take a moment to evaluate the “why” of your Christian experiences. For instance, why do you read your bible? Why do you go to church? Why to you serve others? Why do you treat others with respect? Hopefully the answers will be focused on your relationship with Jesus and not about what others think about you.
- Family Devotional: Read this passage to your family. Explain to them the importance of serving Jesus wholeheartedly and not just going through the motions of serving God. Have them discuss the questions that you asked yourself from the personal application portion. Encourage them to keep serving Jesus and growing in their relationship with the Lord. Pray for them.
Prayer:
- Personal Prayer Focus: Ask God to evaluate the motives of your heart and to help you serve Him wholeheartedly.
- Family Prayer Focus: Pray that your family will keep their heart focused on pleasing the Lord and to not get caught up trying to please people.
Three Year Reading Plan for Sunday, September 20 – Sunday, September 27:
- Sunday, September 20: 2 Chronicles 23
- Monday, September 21: 2 Chronicles 24
- Tuesday, September 22: 2 Chronicles 25
- Wednesday, September 23: 2 Chronicles 26-27
- Thursday, September 24: 2 Chronicles 28
- Friday, September 25: 2 Chronicles 29
- Saturday, September 26: 2 Chronicles 30
- Sunday, September 27: 2 Chronicles 31
—TOM GROOT is National Director of Men’s Ministry and Christian Education. Connect with Tom on Facebook or Twitter @TomGrootJr.
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