The historical accounts of the different kings of Judah and Israel reveal quality of life trends: benefits when serving the Lord and observing His commands; liabilities and hardships when worshiping idols and embracing the pagan practices of other nations. God even sent lions among pagan inhabitants of Samaria whose lifestyles displeased Him.

“The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it.” [Pr. 10:22]

DAILY PRAYER: Lord, only worshiping You can bring the blessed and fulfilled life I want.

DAILY READING: 2 Kings 14-17

When considering the history of the kings of God’s people, it is apparent that the enduring quality of the good kings is that they honored the Lord and kept his commands. Other accomplishments pale in comparison.

Leaders should take note that God will accomplish much more through godliness than through personal ability and ambition.

DAILY PRAYER:  Lord, You are our great leader, and we trust in the strength of Your assistance.

DAILY READING: 2 Kings 10-13

God used Jehu, a leader He had selected, to enact revenge upon wicked King Ahab and his insidious wife, Jezebel. God carefully kept record of their deeds, then orchestrated their demise for all to see.

We are tempted to take matters into our own hands, but only God sees the entire picture and is justified in the way He doles out punishments.

DAILY PRAYER: Father, forgive me for thoughts of revenge. Actually, I pray that Your mercy and forgiveness will prevail in the lives of those who have done me wrong.

DAILY READING:  2 Kings 7-9

Elisha surely lived a remarkable life as recorded in God’s Word. The miracles performed were staggering, and yet he was so careful to maintain a humility devoid of human aggrandizement. His servant, Gehazi, inherited Naaman’s leprosy when he accepted gifts under false pretenses, in effect taking the reward for the miraculous healing.

Paul’s example of humility was also to note. He said he was only the servant of God, and not the pawn of men. He wouldn’t even take wages from his pupils. He supported himself through tent making.

DAILY PRAYER: Lord, to be used by You is a great honor. We value the presence of Your Holy Spirit in our lives. 

DAILY READING: 2 Kings 4-6

Elijah and Elisha both lived lives filled with the miraculous power of God. Seeing the Jordan river part, watching fire come down out of heaven, experiencing divine intervention in wars etc. These men seemed to be superhuman.

Yet, James reveals to us that “Elijah was just as human as we are, and for three and a half years his prayers kept the rain from falling.” [James 5:17] He had great faith and trust.

DAILY PRAYER: Heavenly Father, work through us in like power.  Our generation needs to see Your power on display.

DAILY READING: 2 Kings 1-3

The wicked king Ahab and his wife, Jezebel, schemed to steal Naboth’s vineyard from him. Their plot included a false accusation against Naboth resulting in his death. The Lord turned the tables on them, respecting the innocent blood of Naboth. Their blood was licked up by dogs, just like those that licked up Naboth’s.

Evil plots for personal gain or revenge never work. Your sin will find you out, and God reserves the right to revenge.

DAILY PRAYER: Father in Heaven, I commit my days to You and trust Your Hand of guidance, provision, and protection.

DAILY READING: 1 Kings 21,22

The Syrians attacked Israel in the mountains but were defeated. Their advisors declared, “The God of Israel is a God of the mountains … that’s why they defeated you.” Hence, they attacked on the plain. God said he would give His people victory also on the plain so that they would know that He is in control.

God looks for opportunities to show us how great He is. Walk in faith. Expect miracles today.

DAILY PRAYER: Lord, Yours in the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory, Amen.

DAILY READING: 1 Kings 19, 20

Elijah, the prophet, staged a showdown between God and Baal on Mt. Carmel in front of all Israel. Two sacrificial bulls were selected. Whichever god answered by setting fire to the altar of sacrifice would be declared the true God. Baal’s prophets, all 450 of them, began calling out to Baal. He didn’t answer. He could not hear them. God answered in emphatic fashion. He hears the cry of His servants.

In the hour of true need, rely on the True God to answer. All else will fail. Only He can hear.

DAILY PRAYER: Lord, to whom can we go apart from You? You alone are our Helper in time of need.

DAILY READING: 1 Kings 16-18

Today’s reading includes examples of why it is important to give complete obedience to the Lord. An unnamed prophet delivered a very specific prophecy to King Jeroboam. He disobeyed God by having a meal with an old prophet who lied to him. He met an untimely death because he was diverted from his mission. Kings who did not follow David’s example of obedience were likewise dealt great misfortune for their ungodly ways.

Jesus is our faithful example of obedience. He demonstrated how to “Delight” to do the Father’s will. [Ps. 40:8]

DAILY PRAYER:  Father in heaven, we ask for Your grace so that we, like Jesus, can “Delight to do Thy will.”

DAILY READING: 1 Kings 13-15

Solomon’s wealth was staggering! The Bible’s description of his riches leaves the reader awed. The favor God gave him to enjoy this luxury was thrown away when his heart turned to the idols brought in by the many non-Jewish wives he married. It became his demise.

As we give God His rightful place in our hearts, we experience His favor and blessing. It doesn’t always come in riches like Solomon’s. It may come in the form of your children, your grandchildren, your peace, your joy, your fulfillment and your happiness. These are the true riches.

DAILY PRAYER: Lord, You have blessed us beyond measure. Use our lives to attract others to Yourself.

DAILY READING: 1 Kings 10-12