The prophecy given by Azariah serves as a warning to Asa as well as the Chronicler’s audience against complacency and an incentive to fulfill one’s obligation to God. Although God covenants with His people by grace, He does expect us to respond with obedience and trust. Asa thus serves, at least in this part of his life, as an example worthy of emulation for his godly behavior. Azariah cites an example from Israel’s history when the land was in turmoil during the time of the Judges. The Lord allowed this because the people for the most part had forsaken God. The troubles they faced were sent by Him as disciplinary punishments designed to lead to repentance. As long as Asa remained faithful, he would avoid such trouble.
One of the ways Asa showed his faithfulness was in his extensive reforms in which he rid the land of idolatry, though not entirely. One of his actions was against his own grandmother. This reminds us that our own spirituality and zeal can often place us at odds with our family members. They may see our faith as a threat to their beliefs or else feel the conviction of sin from our godliness, a conviction which they would rather deny. I have been at odds with most of my family since I left the Catholic Church over 30 years ago because they did not (and still do not) preach the truth that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works. This has caused me a lot of heartache and abuse but I have never wavered in living for the Lord. No matter what the pain or cost, the Lord requires that we stand up for His truth even if it means we become alienated from those we love. We must, however, be sure that if others are alienated by our faith and testimony, that it is not because we are smug, arrogant or self-righteousness but humble compassionate.
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