2 Chronicles 12:14

And Rehoboam did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the LORD.

Study Bible

And he did evil
This phrase refers to King Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, who reigned over the southern kingdom of Judah. The Hebrew word for "evil" is "רַע" (ra), which encompasses not only moral wickedness but also actions that are harmful or destructive. In the context of Rehoboam's reign, this evil is characterized by idolatry and a departure from the ways of the LORD. Historically, Rehoboam's reign was marked by a division in the kingdom and a decline in spiritual fidelity, which led to the invasion by Shishak, king of Egypt. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

because he did not set his heart
The phrase "set his heart" is derived from the Hebrew "נָכַן לֵב" (nakan lev), which implies establishing or preparing one's inner being with intention and purpose. In biblical terms, the heart is the center of one's will, emotions, and intellect. Rehoboam's failure to set his heart indicates a lack of deliberate commitment to follow God. This highlights the importance of intentionality in one's spiritual life, emphasizing that a passive or indifferent approach to faith can lead to moral and spiritual decline.

to seek the LORD
The Hebrew word for "seek" is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which means to inquire, require, or pursue diligently. Seeking the LORD involves an active pursuit of God's presence, will, and guidance. In the historical context of Israel, seeking the LORD was often associated with worship, prayer, and adherence to the covenant. Rehoboam's failure to seek the LORD reflects a broader theme in the Old Testament, where the prosperity and peace of the nation are directly linked to the king's faithfulness to God. This serves as an inspirational call for believers to earnestly seek God in all aspects of life, recognizing that true wisdom and strength come from a relationship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and king of Judah, whose reign is marked by a division of the kingdom and spiritual decline.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Rehoboam ruled after the split of the united monarchy.

3. Egypt
Under Pharaoh Shishak, Egypt invaded Judah during Rehoboam's reign, which was a consequence of Rehoboam's failure to seek the Lord.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Rehoboam reigned and where the temple of the Lord was located.

5. Shishak's Invasion
A significant event where Egypt plundered Jerusalem, symbolizing God's judgment on Rehoboam's unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Intentionality in Seeking God
Rehoboam's failure was rooted in his lack of intentionality. Believers must actively set their hearts to seek the Lord daily.

Consequences of Neglecting God
Rehoboam's reign shows that neglecting to seek God leads to spiritual and moral decline, both personally and communally.

Guarding the Heart
As Proverbs 4:23 advises, guarding one's heart is crucial. Rehoboam's heart was not set on God, leading to his downfall.

Leadership and Spiritual Responsibility
Leaders have a responsibility to seek God and lead others in righteousness. Rehoboam's failure affected the entire nation.

Repentance and Restoration
While Rehoboam's account is one of failure, it serves as a reminder of the opportunity for repentance and turning back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific actions or attitudes in your life might indicate that you are not setting your heart to seek the Lord?

2. How can the consequences of Rehoboam's failure to seek God serve as a warning for us today?

3. In what ways can you be more intentional about seeking God in your daily routine?

4. How does the principle of guarding your heart apply to your current spiritual walk?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of neglecting God. How did you find your way back to Him, and what did you learn from that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 14:22-24
This passage parallels the account of Rehoboam's reign, highlighting the idolatry and evil practices that proliferated in Judah.

Proverbs 4:23
This verse emphasizes the importance of guarding one's heart, which connects to Rehoboam's failure to set his heart on seeking the Lord.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God, which contrasts with Rehoboam's neglect to seek the Lord.

James 4:8
Encourages believers to draw near to God, a principle Rehoboam failed to apply in his leadership.