1. Are you with God? (1-8)

Azariah met with King Asa and shared God's word with him. The LORD was with Asa if Asa was with God. In the days of the Judges, Israel had forsaken God. Traveling was unsafe. Warfare from within and without was sadly common. God allowed great distress so that they might seek him. But such distress had not come on Asa because he had sought the LORD. The prophet exhorted him to be strong. Asa took courage. He brought on greater spiritual reforms. Circumstances, culture, and society can dampen our spirits. Let us allow God's word to encourage us to have faith in him.

2. Judah seeks God and are found by him (9-19)

The overwhelmingly positive response to Asa's reforms culminated in an assembly at Jerusalem. Some people in Israel even returned to Judah when they saw that God was with King Asa. The people entered into a wholehearted covenant with the LORD. They rejoiced greatly, and God gave them rest on every side. We do not coerce others into faith. But our lives of love, faith, and courage can encourage others to believe.


Application: Father, help me to hold on your word. Give me courage to practically live out faith in you.
One Word: Hear God's word and take courage