The Threat From Baasha

II Chronicles 16:1–14
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In Asa’s 36th year he was confronted by Baasha, now the king of Israel, who built a fortress at Ramah, about four or five miles north of Jerusalem. Instead of relying solely on the Lord for aid Asa hired Ben-hadad, king of Syria, to help him against the foe.  This scheme was successful. Baasha retreated, and Ramah was seized.  However, in verses 7-10 we see Asa was scolded by the prophet Hanani for his failure to trust the Lord for victory.  His anger against Hanani indicates that in his latter days Asa was less faithful to the Lord.  He even cast the prophet into prison and took out his frustrations on the people.  

In his 39th year of rule Asa suffered a foot disease, but he refused to seek God’s help and only turned to the physicians. He was so hardened that “he thought not to the Lord” (v. 12). Two years later he died and was buried with an impressive state funeral.  May the Lord help us who love the Savior now to continue to be loyal to Him all the days of our lives.

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