1. They humbled themselves (1-7)

Rehoboam became successful and proud. He stopped studying and obeying God's law. So God punished him by removing his protecting hand and allowing Shishak king of Egypt to invade and capture many cities of Judah. The Egyptians came as far as Jerusalem. The prophet Shemaiah rebuked Rehoboam and the leaders of Judah. They accepted the rebuke of God's servant, humbled themselves and repented. So the Lord did not pour out his wrath on them through Shishak. His army did not destroy Jerusalem.

2. To serve God or to serve men? (8-16)

God allowed Shishak to attack Jerusalem and carry off the temple treasures. Rehoboam learned the hard way that it is better to freely serve God who loves us than to serve the kings of other lands who only exploit us. Rehoboam tried to cling to past glory by making bronze shields and substituting them for the gold ones which Solomon had made. He did not set his heart on seeking the Lord.

Application: Lord, teach me to follow your word with a sincere heart, and humbly repent.
One Word: Serve God with a pure heart