What lessons can we learn about trust from Amaziah's actions in this verse? Setting the Scene “ He also hired a hundred thousand mighty warriors from Israel for a hundred talents of silver.” (2 Chronicles 25:6) Amaziah’s Trust Decision • Judah’s king saw a military need and reached for a wallet rather than reaching upward in prayer. • By paying Israel’s troops, Amaziah aligned himself with a nation walking in open rebellion against the LORD (1 Kings 12:28–33). • When God’s prophet confronted him, Amaziah worried more about losing his silver than losing God’s favor (2 Chron 25:7–9). • He eventually released the mercenaries, forfeiting the money—but learned that obedience secures victories money cannot buy (25:11–13). Lessons on Trust • Trust is tested by the options we can afford. – Wealth or influence can tempt us to solve God-sized problems on our own (Psalm 20:7). • Alliances without God invite defeat even before battle begins. – “The LORD is not with Israel.” (25:7) • Obedience may appear costly in the short term, yet it always yields greater gain. – “The LORD can give you much more than this.” (25:9) • True security rests in God’s presence, not in numbers, strategy, or funds (Deuteronomy 20:1–4). • Compromise in one area often leads to deeper compromise later (Amaziah later bowed to Edomite idols, 25:14). Anchoring Truth in Scripture • Proverbs 3:5–6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Isaiah 31:1 — “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… but do not look to the Holy One of Israel.” • 2 Chronicles 16:9 — “The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro… to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully His.” • Psalm 33:16–18 — “A king is not saved by his mighty army… but the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him.” Putting It Into Practice • Before reaching for resources, reach for God. Ask, “Is this decision resting on prayer or on my purse?” • Evaluate alliances—business, personal, ministry—by spiritual compatibility, not convenience. • Release what God says to release, even if it feels like wasted investment; He repays in ways money never could. • Keep short accounts with God; early obedience spares later heartache. • Let every victory deepen dependence, not independence, from the Lord. Living the Lesson Amaziah’s ledger balanced, but his faith account ran dry—until God intervened. Our own spreadsheets, networks, and plans can quietly dethrone trust. Choose instead the simple, sturdy confidence that says, “The LORD can give me much more than this.” |
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