DAY 2: Jeroboam Goes Easy
Imagine a young boy having to carry firewood from the front of his house to the back. His father warned him not to use the wheelbarrow, and instead gave specific instructions that the wood needed to be carried in small bundles. About half way through the project, the young boy decides to disregard his father’s advice, and starts to load the wheelbarrow with wood. To his chagrin, the wheelbarrow breaks apart as he’s hauling the wood, making his job even more difficult than before.
It’s a simple illustration, but is similar to something Jeroboam faces in 1 Kings 12. The people of Israel had been commanded by God to worship Him in Jerusalem. Jeroboam sees this as a burden for the people, and he creates alternative worship centers to make it easier on the people. Even though this was a practical idea, it still went against God’s desire. The Life Application Study Bible notes that God desires our obedience in all things. He wants us to follow-through His way, no matter the cost, time, energy, or resources involved.
As you read today, consider this: Think of a time you have taken the easy way to do a project instead of the right way. What did you learn from this experience?
READING & JOURNALING:
Think of a time you have taken the easy way to do a project instead of the right way. What did you learn from this experience?
In this current season in your life, what are at least five ways you believe God is inviting you to be obedient to Him and His Word? (If possible, ask somebody to help keep you accountable to following through in these areas.)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Genesis 41
Journal: Write it out. Following the pattern from 7 Arrows Page (click here) what did you learn from today’s reading?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I know that trusting and following You is better than trusting and following the ways of the world. Today, I once again pray that Your Word would penetrate deep into my life, and that the wisdom of Your Word would continue to shape me into the person You’ve made me to be. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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