Carry the Flame - Renew Your Heart & Revive the WorldSample

READING

Today’s Scripture reading is a vignette from the life of King Asa. Asa was the king of Judah. There are many bad kings in Israel’s history, but Asa was one of the good ones. 2 Chronicles 14:2 begins his story this way: “Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord his God.”

For three chapters you can read about the prosperous reign of Asa. But the end of his life was marked by war and distance from God. Though he started out following God, he later began to rely on foreign powers rather than God (vs. 7-8). Even when faced with a crippling disease, he didn’t turn to God (v. 12).

Within this story of an ancient king is a truth about God. Hanani, the seer says, “the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (v.9). In today’s video, Pastor Jim Cymbala reinforces this idea. He says, “It’s not ability that God is looking for. It’s availability that he’s looking for.”

If the eyes of God range through the earth today, would he see your heart as one that is fully committed to him? Are you available to God?

These are sobering questions. Here again, the story of Asa offers insight: “He removed the foreign altars and the high places, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He commanded Judah to seek the Lord, the God of their ancestors, and to obey his laws and commands.” (2 Chronicles 14:3-4) The first thing Asa did after becoming king was use his power to destroy idols and turn the people back to the laws of the Lord. What better way to say to God, “I’m available,” than by clearing your life of idols and immersing yourself in his word?

God is looking for people who are committed to him and available to serve. He’s not looking for people of a certain age, education level, or social status. He’s looking for committed, available people. Learn from Asa’s mistake. Stay dependent on God and be available to him.

REFLECTION

What are the idols in your life that could pull you away from God if given enough time?

Asa faced a foot disease but ignored God (v.12). How do you approach God when your health is challenged?

Asa was buried with honor (v.14). What does his honorable death reveal about God’s character?

PRAYER

Dear God, I want to be available to you. Please forgive me for the times I’ve ignored your Spirit’s voice. And please forgive me for allowing worthless idols to distract me. I praise you for your faithfulness and goodness. What can I do for you this week? I will follow and obey. Amen.