In what ways can we ensure our actions align with God's will today? Setting the Context “Those who conspired against him were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess, and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess.” (2 Chronicles 24:26) King Joash began well, but after his mentor Jehoiada died he drifted, silenced prophetic warning, and was finally assassinated by men whose very names testify to foreign, idolatrous influence. His end contrasts sharply with the early promise of his reign and underscores the danger of acting outside God’s will. What Went Wrong for Joash • Drifted from godly counsel—“Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest.” (24:2) The blessing lasted only while he listened. • Listened to flattering officials—“After the death of Jehoiada, the officials of Judah came and bowed down before the king, and he listened to them.” (24:17) • Abandoned true worship—“Then they abandoned the house of the LORD… and served the Asherah poles and idols.” (24:18) • Rejected correction—Zechariah asked, “Why are you transgressing the commandments of the LORD…?” (24:20) but Joash had him killed. • Reaped painful consequences—foreign-influenced conspirators struck him down (24:26). Lessons for Aligning Our Actions with God’s Will • Stay anchored in Scripture – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Guard the company you keep – “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” (2 Corinthians 6:14) • Seek and heed godly counsel – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Allow constant mind-renewal – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:2) • Practice immediate obedience – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) • Remain humble and repent quickly – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” (1 John 1:9) Practical Daily Practices 1. Begin each day in the Word—read, meditate, and write a brief takeaway. 2. Pray Scripture back to God, asking Him to shape desires and decisions. 3. Invite accountability—share plans and struggles with a mature believer. 4. Evaluate influences—music, media, friendships—eliminate what drags you away from Christ. 5. Respond to conviction immediately; delayed obedience often becomes disobedience. 6. Gather with believers regularly—“Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… not neglecting meeting together.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) 7. End each day with reflection: Where did I see God’s guidance? Where did I resist? Confess, give thanks, rest. A Final Encouragement “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) When His name shapes every thought, conversation, and action, our lives stay aligned with His perfect will—unlike Joash, whose tragic compromise stands as a warning to walk closely with the Lord all our days. |
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