An obscure reference marks the end of a passage describing King Ahaz’s destructive changes to the temple in Jerusalem. We’re told that Ahaz modified the entrance to the temple (likely an awning over the entrance) because of the king of Assyria.

The chronicler described Ahaz as one who did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord his God. In fact, Ahaz gave the Lord the middle finger. He even burned his son alive as an offering to demonic gods, living according to the despicable practices of the nations whom the Lord drove out before the people of Israel.

Why Ahaz turned so hard from the Lord we do not know. Why does anyone reject God? One clue emerges—Ahaz desperately felt the need to please the king of Assyria. In homage to the most powerful ruler in the region, Ahaz shuttered the temple and chopped up its furniture. Worship was held at new pagan alters. Ahaz fawned before the Assyrian king.

Despite a long lineage from the house of David, Ahaz chose to live at the pleasure of his pagan overlord. Ahaz proved a criminal of a human being and a failure as king. Active rebellion best describes his actions toward God.

To be honest, I’m tempted in the same way. How much easier to shunt aside the ways of the Lord and embrace empty philosophies? It’s challenging to read the Scriptures and pray and spend time with fellow believers. It takes discipline and attentiveness, time and energy. Following Jesus remains a counter-cultural lifestyle, but my life and yours flourish when we make decisions because of The King.

2 Kings 16:18

Photo by Christopher Stites