The Temple: A Study in 2 ChroniclesSample

What does it say?

Rehoboam listened to young advisors and vowed to oppress the people even more than his father had. They revolted, and the kingdom was divided.

What does it mean?

The wealth, power, and status achieved under Solomon came at a great price – the oppression of the people. As Rehoboam inherited the throne and all that his father had built, he was given the opportunity to win the hearts of his people by ruling with kindness and mercy. Instead, pride and arrogance drove him to inflict even greater oppression on the people under his rule. This selfish act tore the nation apart, and the kingdom was forever divided. Rehoboam rejected the wise counsel of his aged advisors and listened to younger men who were more interested in appeasing the king than in looking out for the best interest of the nation.

How should I respond?

Having an exalted view of yourself is extremely dangerous. Decisions made under the clouded vision that accompanies pride can carry devastating results for you and the people who surround you. Many of us struggle with the temptation to think too much of our own opinions. The key to resisting pride, however, is to focus on Christ and His will rather than on what would seem personally advantageous. Is your life characterized by a focus on selfish pursuits or by a heart motivated to honor God? When you’re faced with an area of pride today, ask God to show you how to honor Him instead.