Hit Men
Reflective Reading: II Chronicles 25:1-12
Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining me! Today’s story is going to be about Amaziah: a king who did right in God’s eyes, but still struggled to serve the Lord with his whole heart. Our story starts off a little like this…
Amaziah is about to engage in a battle, and for added security he hired 100,000 extra hit men “just in case.” All is going according to plan until a prophet comes and tells him that God has ordered a change of plans.
Though considered one of the good and better kings of Judah, Amaziah’s faith is weak. Because he has hired the 100,000 extra soldiers from the immoral northern kingdom, God sends a prophet to confront him.
The prophet says:
“Why should you suppose that God will cast you down before the enemy?” (II Chronicles 25:8)
It is tempting when faced with difficult battles, to ask the world for their help and protection. And when we do, it is often that we have to compromise. Each situation and each battle is designed as a lesson for us. God is testing us to see whether or not we’ll trust him completely.
King Amaziah didn’t pass the test because of the idols of his heart. After the prophet tells the king to send the soldiers back, he says (my paraphrase), “But what about the money that I paid down for the extra soldiers? Do I get a refund?” Amaziah doesn’t mind the change in plans as long as he doesn’t lose all that money! Isn’t that one of the main reasons people compromise when facing difficult decisions—their love of money?
The prophet then says:
“Amaziah, The LORD is able to give you much more than this” (II Chronicles 25:9b).
Isn’t that a great statement?! Our God can do anything!—If we can trust him.
Let’s not miss out on what God has in store for us, no matter how great the battle or how many losses we may incur.
“The LORD is able to give you much more than this” (II Chronicles 25:9b)!
Mark Hamby
M.S., M. Div., Th. M., D. Min.
President
Recommended Reading:
Joseph’s Shield (Ages 6+)
The White Knights (Ages 9+)
Rosa of Linden Castle (Ages 9+)
Manchester House (Ages 12+)
Dashed to Pieces book/audio drama (Ages 12+)
