DAY 3: God Punishes Jeroboam
There are a number of stories throughout the Scriptures in which somebody tries to hide from God. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve discovered they were naked, and to hide their shame they tried to hide from God. In 1 Kings 14, Jeroboam has his wife disguise herself in order to try to get a favorable message about his son who is sick. The simple fact that he has her disguise herself is a sign that he was desperate. He knew he hadn’t followed God in the way he was commanded to, and instead of pleading to God for help, he tries to manipulate the situation to get what he wants.
Some may read this chapter of Scripture and think that God’s response to Jeroboam’s sins is too strong. But this passage must be understood in its appropriate context. Jeroboam had been commanded on how to live (1 Kings 11:38) and instead, led the entire nation away from God. Similarly, the people of God had received specific instructions (Deuteronomy 28:15-19, 36-38; 30:15-20) yet neglected to follow them.
As you read today, consider this: Do you find yourself hiding from God, or openly acknowledging your sins and allowing God to refine and renew you?
READING & JOURNALING:
1 KINGS 14:1-18, DEUTERONOMY 28:15-19, 30:15-20
Do you find yourself hiding from God, or openly acknowledging your sins and allowing God to refine and renew you?
Those who hide from God experience shame. Those who confess to God experience guilt. One leads us away from God, while the other draws us closer. What is something you’ve been hiding from God? Take the opportunity today to confess it, and allow God to begin to refine you.
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Genesis 42 & 43
Journal: Write it out. Following the pattern from 7 Arrows Page (click here) what did you learn from today’s reading?
PRAYER:
Today’s prayer is to be written on your own (see above).
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