1. One powerful and evil woman (1-10)

After Jehoram's death, his youngest son Ahaziah became king. The wicked queen mother Athaliah encouraged him in doing evil. One day he made an unfortunate visit to his mother's relatives in Israel. During his visit, a coup d'?tat which destroyed the house of Ahab erupted. This was God's judgment on Baal worship in Israel. Ahaziah was killed. When his mother heard about it, she proceeded to kill all heirs to the throne--including her own grandchildren. She took over the government. It looked as if the lamp of David had gone out.

2. One faithful and courageous woman (11-12)

Jehosheba was a royal princess and the wife of Jehoiada the priest. She rescued her nephew, the infant son of King Ahaziah, and hid him from Athaliah so she could not kill him. Jehosheba hid baby Joash in the temple for 6 years. The lamp of David flickered, but did not go out.

Application: Lord, give me faith and courage so that I may be used by you.
One Word: A faithful woman; a seed of hope