1 Kings 16 -- Israel Begins Its Death Spiral

Israel became a slaughterhouse as rivals rose up to steal the kingship.

Jeroboam's son Nadab was assassinated by Baasha after ruling for only two years.  Baasha became king and killed all of Jeroboam's family, just as God had said.  My commentary noted, however, "Though Baasha fulfilled God's will when he killed Nadab and then wiped out the house of Jeroboam, he was still responsible for his motives and his actions.  Baasha didn't enter into his grisly work as a holy servant of God but as an evil assassin who wanted the throne ... A person who fulfills divine prophecy is not innocent of sin."

God sent Jehu to speak against Baasha, saying that his family would also be exterminated.  His son Elah became king, only ruling for two years before being murdered by Zimri, an army officer in charge of half the chariots.  Zimri wiped out all of Baasha's family and friends.  But this deed cost him dearly.  One week later the army of Israel attacked the capital city of Israel after discovering Zimri's involvement in Elah's death.  Knowing he was about to be captured, Zimri burned his palace down around himself.  The army then made Omri king.  (Omri established Samaria as the new capital.)

Each king seemed to try his best to outdo his predecessors in sinning, and God became more and more angry with each succeeding king.  Omri died and his son Ahab became king.  For 22 years, the nation flaunted Ahab's sins and God grew angrier with each passing year.  Building a temple to Baal was the last straw, and God got ready to intervene.

Father, I remember a time when I started a downhill slide, getting farther and farther away from You.  I know what that feels like, and I never want it to happen again.  Keep me ever mindful of my propensity to sin.  Stop me before I step away from You and draw me back with Your love.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford