This chapter covers a variety of topics including the Levites’ gathering in Judah and Rehoboam’s family.
“And the priests and the Levites who were in all Israel presented themselves… from all places where they lived. For the Levites… came to Judah and Jerusalem, because Jeroboam and his sons cast them out from serving as priests of the Lord, and he appointed his own priests… for the goat idols and for the calves… And those who had set their hearts to seek the Lord God of Israel came after them from all the tribes of Israel to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the Lord, the God of their fathers. They strengthened the kingdom of Judah… for they walked for three years in the way of David and Solomon.” (v13-17 abr)
During the first three years of Rehoboam’s rule, God was worshiped in Judah. All those still true to God came over from Israel. Jeroboam who ruled Israel had chosen to make idols and turn the people away from God so they would not be drawn back to Jerusalem – thankfully some people remained faithful to God.
Over the centuries there have been countless stories of people defecting from their countries due to disagreement with the current leadership. Some stories involve severe oppression, others simple political differences. Either way, there is always a choice between following an influence, and not following an influence. In this context and period in history, the influence we’re looking at is God – Judah followed God, Israel did not. Those who wanted to follow God defected to Judah.
We still defect today, though it’s usually on a smaller scale. There are many passages that speak about Christ followers being ‘in the world’, but not ‘of the world’ (eg. Jn 17:14-16, Jn 15:19, Jn 8:22-24, 1 Jn 4:5). When we find ourselves becoming ‘of this world’, it’s time to defect and flee from that misleading influence.
Defecting may be temporarily retreating to our safe place to bolster our spirit in worship and the word. Defecting may also mean more drastic measures such as no longer spending time with someone, or moving, because the influence drawing us away from God is too strong to withstand at this point in time.
I encourage us that it’s okay to leave an influence (at least for a time) that’s drawing us away from God. Leaving that situation takes strength, courage and faith. Going with the flow (being ‘of the world’) is the easy path, and going against that flow (serving God) will be an uphill challenge. Just like becoming physically fit involves much practice and pain, becoming spiritually fit will also involve practice and pain, which is why some may choose the easy path. I encourage us to remain firm in our faith, and God will be with us through the challenges, strengthening us each day we remain true to Him.
Father God, our source of courage and discernment, we exalt Your name on high. Father You alone are our strength and shield, to You alone may our spirit yield. May we learn to flee situations that draw us away from You. May we take shelter in You frequently, knowing that You are our safe place. Please lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training