This chapter recounts the next King of Judah, Jehoash (also spelled Joash), being anointed and crowned at seven years old.
“Then [the priest] brought out the king’s son and put the crown on him and gave him the testimony. And they proclaimed him king and anointed him, and they clapped their hands and said, ‘Long live the king!’ When Athaliah heard the noise of the guard and of the people, she went into the house of the Lord… there was the king… and all the people of the land rejoicing and blowing trumpets. And Athaliah tore her clothes and cried, “Treason! Treason!”… So they laid hands on her; and she went through the horses’ entrance to the king’s house, and there she was put to death.” (v12-16 abr)
Ahaziah, the previous King of Judah (Ahab’s grandson) was wicked and killed by Jehu while visiting Samaria. His mother Athaliah (Ahab’s daughter) killed off all remaining heirs to the throne except Jehoash, who was hidden away. She proclaimed herself queen and reigned for six years while Jehoash was raised by Jehoiada the chief priest. Spoiler alert: Jehoash becomes a God-honoring king and does not follow in the ways of Ahab as his father, grandmother and grandfather did.
I know we’ve talked about influence and mentorship before, however it keeps coming back up. I believe Influence is a critical component in our everyday lives. We are all being influenced at all times, whether we realize it or not. We’re impacted by news feeds, social media, music, marketing, TV, movies, video games, books, the people in our lives, etc. Something or someone is constantly influencing (or at least attempting to influence) us.
Seeing how it’s impossible to avoid influences in our lives, we need to choose carefully which ones affect us. Just like Jehoash, our primary influences should be from God, His Spirit, and His word.
I encourage us to spend at least 5 minutes each morning connecting with God through worship, prayer, scripture, journaling, or some other spiritual practice. In my experience starting the day with God helps set the tone for the remaining day. “…in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Php 4:6-7 abr) When we’re rooted in God, He will help guard our hearts and minds, protecting us from unrighteous influences.
Father God, our source of strength and guidance, great and mighty is Your name. We thank You for gentle reminders to spend time with You. Holy Spirit please block out distractions and influences which separate us from our Father. Please guard our hearts and minds according to Your promise, and keep our feet from the paths of evil. In the name of Jesus we praise, honor and glorify You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training