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2 Kings 15 Devotional

The Throne Behind the Thrones

“So the word of the LORD spoken to Jehu was fulfilled: “Four generations of your sons will sit on the throne of Israel.””2 Kings 15:12 (BSB)

This chapter races through a series of kings. In Judah, Azariah, also called Uzziah, does what is right, yet the high places remain and the LORD afflicts him with leprosy (15:3-5). In Israel, things fall apart. Zechariah reigns six months before Shallum kills him. Shallum lasts one month before Menahem kills him. Menahem's son is killed by Pekah, and Pekah by Hoshea (15:10-30). There is cruelty along the way (15:16), and Assyria begins taking tribute and captives (15:19-20, 15:29).

In the middle of the chaos, one line stands out. Zechariah's death fulfills the LORD's word to Jehu that his dynasty would last four generations (15:12). Kings seize power by conspiracy, but none of them is in charge of history. Near the end, the chapter notes that it was the LORD who began sending enemies against Judah (15:37). Daniel says God removes kings and sets them in place (Daniel 2:21). When public life seems unstable, the throne that matters most has not changed hands.

To think about: When the news around you feels chaotic, what does it mean for you that God still rules over every ruler?

About 2 Kings 15: Uzziah’s Leprosy and Israel’s Turmoil

Azariah, also called Uzziah, rules Judah well but is struck with leprosy, so Jotham governs. In Israel, Zechariah’s murder ends Jehu’s dynasty as God promised, rival kings seize power by assassination, and Assyria takes tribute and captives. As Jotham reigns, the LORD begins sending Aram and Israel against Judah.

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