This chapter concludes Rehoboam’s reign in Judah. The last verse mentions his death, and that his son Abijah rules in his place.
“When the rule of Rehoboam was established and he was strong, he abandoned the law of the Lord, and all Israel with him. In the fifth year of King Rehoboam, because they had been unfaithful to the Lord, Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem… He took away the treasures of the house of the Lord and the treasures of the king’s house. He took away everything. He also took away the shields of gold that Solomon had made… And when [Rehoboam] humbled himself the wrath of the Lord turned from him, so as not to make a complete destruction. Moreover, conditions were good in Judah.” (v9,12)
Judah remained strong in the Lord for three years, then Rehoboam and the nation turned their backs on God, so He turned His back on them. Judah was besieged and nearly wiped out by Egypt, until Rehoboam and the elders humbled themselves. God relented and prevented their total destruction, but Judah was still plundered.
This shows that sin always has consequences. The consequences can be less severe if we own confess and own our sin before God, however there will still be fallout. One could also argue that obedience has consequences – many of the apostles and Jesus Himself were martyred for their obedience to God. That being said, obedience has eternal rewards, whereas sin has eternal death and destruction.
This passage also teaches that it’s never too late to repent and humble ourselves. Yes, there will still be temporary consequences in this world, however, repentance has eternal rewards. Rehoboam had a prophet (Shemaiah) to guide his repentance, but we have direct access to the indwelling Holy Spirit.
I encourage us to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance for any areas in our lives where we are not fully submitted to God. I know I have a few, plus some areas I’m likely not seeing. The Spirit will be more than willing to help us discern those areas, and guide us through that process. Let’s ask for God’s gentle hand upon us as we embark on this crucial journey of purification.
Father God, our Holy Lord, You are flawless and righteous beyond compare. Please gently guide us with Your Holy Spirit. Please reveal any remaining sin in our lives, and walk with us through our repentance. May You humble our hearts gently, for we are fragile and slow to learn. Please cleanse us of all unrighteousness in the name of Jesus, who took away our eternal punishment on the cross. We honor, praise, and glorify You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training