1. Idolatry and pride caused his downfall (14-16)

After defeating Edom, Amaziah brought back their gods and worshiped them. A prophet tried to reason with the king: 'If their gods couldn't help them, why worship them?' But he would not listen because of his pride and idolatry. Pride goes before destruction; a haughty spirit before a fall (Prov 16:18). May pride and idols not be our downfall.

2. Amaziah would not listen (17-28)

Amaziah wanted to fight Israel. Jehoash king of Israel told him a parable about a proud thistle. It was a warning that he was arrogant and proud and only asking for trouble and ruin (18-19). But Amaziah would not listen. God was working to deliver him over for his idolatry. Israel won the battle, broke Jerusalem's wall and stole the temple articles. Amaziah was humiliated, and later assassinated. What a tragic end!


Application: Lord, forgive my arrogance and pride. Help me to listen to you and to wise counsel, including warnings.
One Word: Repent of pride and idolatry and listen to God.