April 8, 2025, 2 Kings 23:31-35

April 8, 2025, 2 Kings 23:31-35

31  Jehoahaz was twenty-three years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Hamutal the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah.  32  And he did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his fathers had done.  33  And Pharaoh Neco put him in bonds at Riblah in the land of Hamath, that he might not reign in Jerusalem, and laid on the land a tribute of a hundred talents of silver and a talent of gold.  34  And Pharaoh Neco made Eliakim the son of Josiah king in the place of Josiah his father, and changed his name to Jehoiakim. But he took Jehoahaz away, and he came to Egypt and died there.  35  And Jehoiakim gave the silver and the gold to Pharaoh, but he taxed the land to give the money according to the command of Pharaoh. He exacted the silver and the gold of the people of the land from everyone according to his assessment, to give it to Pharaoh Neco.

 

Josiah’s son, Jehoahaz, took reign at the age of 23 and only served as king for 3 months.  During his short reign, he returned to the evil ways of his ancestors.  Pharaoh Neco, king of Egypt, imprisoned Jehoahaz and he died in Egypt.

 

These few verses underscore the importance of being steadfast in our obedience and faith.  Constant renewal and commitment to Christ is of upmost importance yet difficult.  How do you continually strive to commune with Christ in faith and obedient?  The struggle is real.  Surround yourself with God’s Word, prayer, Godly people and seek fellowship in a body of strong believers.

 

Robin Adams