by Josh Moody Today’s Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 22-24, Psalm 146, Luke 12:1-12, 2 Thessalonians 2:6-12 2 Chronicles 22-24: In these chapters we learn of the importance of influence—mentors, forebears, examples, models. Ahaziah was made king, but he copied the ways of his mother and of the counselors who encouraged him to follow the ways of Ahab (22:3-5)—that is doing evil and not following the Lord. It is easy to think those who are older are necessarily wiser, that a teacher or a professor or (God forbid) a pastor must be speaking wisely when in fact they speak evil. Be careful whom you choose as your counselor or your model, the person you will emulate. Perhaps no choice is more important after the simple choice to follow God. We tend to do what we see even more than what we hear—especially if the words spoken are uttered by someone who is relationally near to us and respected by us. Ahaziah failed because he emulated a mother and counselors who advised him against following the Lord. Conversely, with Joash we see the opposite effect—this time of a good counselor. Jehoiada the priest effectively sets up Joash as king (23:1-11), and has Athaliah removed and executed (23:12-15). While Jehoiada is alive, Joash is a wise and godly king. Reforms are instituted (23:16-21), and the temple is repaired (24:4). But “after the death of Jehoiada” (24:17), Joash listens to other counselors, and he abandons the ways of God. And is himself assassinated (24:23-27). Be careful whom you copy. Be active in choosing a mentor, or better yet mentors, who will be able to shape you, encourage you, and be an example to you of what it means to follow God. Do not always follow someone who is older than you or in an official position over you if that person does not also follow God. And if you are in a position to have an influence on others—a father, a mother, a friend, an employer, a supervisor, a leader—then use that influence for good and for the glory of Christ. To receive God Centered Bible devotionals directly in your inbox, sign up here.]]>