2 Chronicles 16:12

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa became diseased in his feet, and his malady became increasingly severe. Yet even in his illness he did not seek the LORD, but only the physicians.

Study Bible

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign
This phrase situates the event towards the end of King Asa's reign over Judah, which lasted 41 years. Asa was known for his initial faithfulness to God, implementing religious reforms and seeking the Lord's guidance in earlier battles (2 Chronicles 14:2-5). The thirty-ninth year marks a period of decline in his spiritual life, highlighting the dangers of complacency and self-reliance over time.

Asa became diseased in his feet
The specific mention of a disease in Asa's feet may symbolize a loss of stability or foundation, as feet are often associated with one's walk or journey in life. This physical ailment could reflect a spiritual condition, as Asa's reliance on God had waned. In biblical times, diseases were often seen as a consequence of sin or a test of faith, prompting individuals to seek divine intervention.

and his disease became increasingly severe
The progression of Asa's disease underscores the seriousness of his condition and the urgency for divine intervention. This mirrors the spiritual principle that unresolved sin or lack of faith can lead to worsening consequences. The increasing severity of his ailment serves as a metaphor for the escalating spiritual decline when one turns away from God.

Yet even in his illness he did not seek the LORD
This phrase highlights Asa's failure to turn to God in his time of need, contrasting with his earlier reliance on the Lord during military threats (2 Chronicles 14:11). It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of maintaining faith and seeking God in all circumstances, not just in times of crisis. Theologically, it emphasizes the necessity of a consistent relationship with God.

but only the physicians
In the ancient Near East, physicians were often consulted for physical ailments, but their practices were limited compared to modern medicine. Asa's exclusive reliance on physicians, rather than seeking God, indicates a misplaced trust in human wisdom over divine power. This reflects a broader biblical theme where reliance on human strength or wisdom is often contrasted with faith in God (Jeremiah 17:5-8). The narrative serves as a reminder of the ultimate authority and healing power of God, foreshadowing the New Testament emphasis on Jesus as the Great Physician (Mark 2:17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
King of Judah, known for his initial faithfulness to God and religious reforms, but later in life, he relied more on human wisdom than divine guidance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, over which Asa reigned. It was often in conflict with surrounding nations and the northern kingdom of Israel.

3. Physicians
In the context of ancient Judah, these were likely practitioners of medicine who relied on natural remedies and possibly pagan practices, rather than seeking divine intervention.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Wisdom
Asa's failure to seek the Lord in his illness serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relying solely on human wisdom and resources. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in all circumstances.

The Importance of Consistent Faithfulness
Asa's life demonstrates the need for consistent faithfulness to God throughout one's life. Initial zeal can wane if not continually nurtured by a relationship with God.

The Role of Prayer in Healing
While medical intervention is valuable, it should not replace seeking God through prayer. Believers are encouraged to integrate faith and prayer with medical care.

Consequences of Spiritual Neglect
Asa's account illustrates the spiritual and physical consequences of neglecting a relationship with God. It serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual health.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's reliance on physicians instead of God reflect a shift in his spiritual priorities, and what can we learn from this about maintaining our faith?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our trust in God remains strong, even when facing severe trials or illnesses?

3. How do the scriptures in Jeremiah 17:5-8 and James 5:14-15 provide guidance for balancing faith and practical action in times of need?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did you balance seeking God's guidance with taking practical steps?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your relationship with God remains a priority, even when life becomes challenging or when you experience success?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:23-24
Provides a parallel account of Asa's reign, including his illness and death, highlighting his failure to seek God.

2 Chronicles 14:2-5
Describes Asa's earlier faithfulness and reforms, contrasting his later reliance on human solutions.

Jeremiah 17:5-8
Warns against trusting in human strength over God, illustrating the spiritual principle Asa neglected.

James 5:14-15
Encourages seeking God through prayer and the church community in times of illness, contrasting Asa's approach.