Manasseh Humbled Himself

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Humility

Manasseh was the longest reigning king. He was 12 years old when he took over and he ruled for 55 years (v. 1). His father, Hezekiah was a great king who led his nation back to serving God. However, as soon as Manasseh got opportunity, he undid everything his father had done for the nation (vv.  2-7). He spent most of his life doing evil. He worshiped idols, tried to speak with the dead through witches and sorcerers, sacrificed his sons to idols, and put people to death who challenged him. Manasseh was full of pride, and he could care less about God. God had told David and Solomon many years earlier that Jerusalem belongs to Him and there in the temple he will be worshiped forever (v. 7). He said that if his people would faithfully obey the laws and teachings, He would never again force them to leave the land (v. 8). However, these people were more sinful than their ancestors even though the Lord tried to warn them (vv. 9-10).

Then one day God decided that enough was enough. He sent the of King of Assyria to invade Jerusalem. Manasseh was captured, and they put a hook in his nose and chains on his hands and feet and took him to Babylon (v. 11). All his wealth and power, and all his idols were no help to him then. His situation was hopeless. But Manasseh remembered that the God of Israel was a God of second chances. This murderous, lying, abuser of people, actually humbled himself before God in prayer (vv. 12-14). And when he prayed, the Lord was moved and listened to his plea. God brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Manasseh knew that the Lord is God. Manasseh spent the rest of his life attempting to lead his people back to God (vv. 15-19). We may have blown it in the past, but all of us can make a positive difference in what takes place from here on out. 

Manasseh died, and his son Amon became king at the age of 22. Manasseh had turned back to God, but Amon disobeyed the Lord, just as his father had done (vv. 20-23). After two years some of his own servants plotted against him and killed him in his own house (v. 24) Then the people of Judah killed the murders of Amon and made Josiah king (v. 25). 

Application

 

If I mess up God is always there to forgive me and give me a second chance. He not only forgives but forgets the past and will give me an opportunity to make a positive difference in the future. 

II Chronicles 33:1-25 (English Standard Version)


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