daily bible readings

Sin always has consequences. Even when we think that no one is watching us or that this action will hurt no one else, sin always has consequences. The story of the Bible contains many instances and examples of the consequences of sin. Sin always has consequences.

Amaziah found this to be true. Having been granted a God-given victory over the Edomites, he took their gods and set them up as his own gods. He bowed down and prayed to them. He even offered sacrifices to these defeated gods that could not save the people. Perhaps the lure of being able to see these “gods” was more alluring and tempting than listening to the God who could not be seen.

The Lord warned Amaziah in no uncertain terms that sin always has consequences.  Through the man of God, Amaziah was told, “I know that God has determined to destroy you, because you have done this and have not listened to my counsel.” 2 Chronicles 25:16.  In fact, the writer tells us, quite explicitly, that the Lord worked in Amaziah so as to allow the consequences to work out. “Amaziah, however, would not listen, for God so worked that he might hand them over to Jehoash, because they sought the gods of Edom.” 2 Chronicles 25:20.

Interestingly, the Chronicler spends no time describing the actual battle. The two kings faced off on the battlefield and we immediately read, “Judah was routed by Israel, and every man fled to his home.” 2 Chronicles 25:22.  The writer, rather than wasting time describing the battle, highlights the consequences of Amaziah’s sinfulness. “Jehoash king of Israel captured Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth Shemesh. Then Jehoash brought him to Jerusalem and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate—a section about six hundred feet long. 24 He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the temple of God that had been in the care of Obed-Edom, together with the palace treasures and the hostages, and returned to Samaria.” 2 Chronicles 25:23–24.

We would do well to remember when tempted that sin always has consequences. God allows and works consequences in our life to teach us, mould us and to make us more like Jesus. Wise parents do not stop consequences flowing out of their children’s actions (unless they could be dangerous) to teach their children. God, who is infinitely wiser, allows and even causes consequences to teach us, discipline us and to hone sin out of our lives.

When we are tempted, the world, the evil one and even our own hearts and minds tend to focus on the positives and the “blessings” of sin rather than the consequences. We lie to ourselves that the consequences will be minimal. The evil one and the world simply dismisses consequences and encourages us not to worry about them.

Richard Wurmbrand, while he was in solitary confinement for his faith, would often be tempted by the evil one. Rather than try to stop the temptation  outright, he would follow the temptation to its logical outcome to see the consequences. Having seen the consequences, he would be strengthened to avoid sin and to persevere in holiness. 

Sin always has consequences. When we are tempted to sin, let’s honestly think about the consequences and seek to ward off that sin and the temptation.

Prayer:

Adoration:

• Adore our heavenly Father for He is perfect and holy in all His ways.
• Adore God that He loves you and cares for you more than a father and mother cares for their children.

Confession:

•  Take time to confess your sins to the Lord and to ask for forgiveness

Thanks:

• Thank God that even though He allows consequences in our lives, He loves us and allows these for our own good and our own welfare.
• Thank God that His ways are perfect and just and that all things work for the good of those who love Him.

Supplication:

• Pray that our youth would grow in holiness and in their desire to avoid sin and to be holy and righteous in Christ Jesus.
• Pray that your congregation would grow in holiness and righteousness.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why does the Chronicler focus on the consequences of the battle rather than the battle itself?
2. If God caused Amaziah to sin, how can God hold him accountable for his sins?
3. How would you sum up Amaziah’s reign?