For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. – 2 Chronicles 16:9

Every once in a while, before I study the Word, I like to say in my mind as much scripture as I know.  I like to think that if I didn’t have a copy of God’s Word, that I would still be able to sustain my spirit by the Word that is written on my heart and mind.  Even though I had this verse memorized, I didn’t know where it was.  I also had no clue what the context was, so I studied it this morning.

King Asa was the king of Judah.  Baasha was the king of Israel.  Baasha decided to build a fortified city in between them so he could stop people from coming or going into Judah.  Instead of going to God and asking for His help, Asa took money from the temple treasury and paid an enemy king to protect Judah.  Temporarily, the plan worked.   

A preacher by the name of Hanani went to see king Asa.  He told him that he was very foolish to rely on enemy help.  He reminded him that two other times enemies invaded, Asa trusted God and the Lord protected them both times.  Because the king refused to trust God this time, Hanani told him that war would never depart from him during his reign.  This infuriated Asa.  He threw Hanani into prison and began to brutally oppress some of his own people. 

After reigning as king for 39 years, Asa was struck with a foot disease.  Even then, he refused to ask for God’s help.  Instead, he chose to pay physicians who ultimately didn’t help him.  He died two years later.  

Just two chapters before, the Bible says that Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord.  I wonder what happened in that 36^th year of his reign that made him decide to ask an enemy king for help when he had complete and perfect access to the help of Almighty God.  More importantly, I wonder if this could happen to me. 

Lord, please help my heart stay fully committed to You.  When Your eyes range throughout this earth, I really hope that you see my heart and strengthen it.  Help me stay on track.  Help me stay in love with You.  Help me to only do the things that You would have me do.  May I never rely on my enemies for help.  May I always seek You first and Your guidance for whatever comes my way.  Help me soak in Your Presence that I feel so mightily right now for as long as I can.  I love You.  Amen.