Topical Bible: Liberality: Asa and Abijam

◄ Liberality: Asa and Abijam ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Asa

Asa, the third king of the Kingdom of Judah, is often remembered for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh. His reign is marked by a commitment to righteousness and a desire to lead his people back to the covenantal faithfulness that characterized the early days of Israel. Asa's liberality is evident in his dedication to removing idolatry and promoting the worship of the one true God.

In 2 Chronicles 14:2-5 , we read about Asa's reforms: "Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God. He removed the foreign altars and high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and chopped down the Asherah poles. He commanded Judah to seek the LORD, the God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandments. He also removed the high places and incense altars from all the cities of Judah, and under him the kingdom was at peace."

Asa's liberality is further demonstrated in his reliance on God during times of conflict. When faced with the threat of the Cushite army, Asa turned to the Lord in prayer, acknowledging his dependence on divine intervention. In 2 Chronicles 14:11 , Asa cried out, "LORD, there is no one besides You to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on You, and in Your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God; do not let a mere mortal prevail against You."

Asa's liberality extended to his willingness to trust in God's provision and protection, rather than relying solely on military might or alliances. His reign is a testament to the blessings that come from a heart devoted to God and a life characterized by spiritual generosity.

Abijam

Abijam, also known as Abijah, was the son of Rehoboam and the second king of Judah. His reign was notably shorter than that of his successor, Asa, and is often characterized by a lack of the same spiritual fervor and reformative zeal. Despite this, Abijam's liberality can be seen in his recognition of the Davidic covenant and his appeal to God's promises during times of conflict.

In 1 Kings 15:3-5 , it is noted that Abijam "walked in all the sins his father had committed before him, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of his forefather David had been. Nevertheless, for the sake of David, the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by preserving Jerusalem."

Abijam's liberality is most evident during his confrontation with Jeroboam, the king of Israel. In 2 Chronicles 13:10-12 , Abijam declared, "But as for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken Him. The priests who minister to the LORD are sons of Aaron, and the Levites attend to their duties. Every morning and every evening they present burnt offerings and fragrant incense to the LORD. They set out the showbread on the ceremonially clean table and light the lamps of the gold lampstand every evening. For we keep the charge of the LORD our God, but you have forsaken Him."

Abijam's appeal to the faithfulness of God and the covenantal promises made to David highlights a form of liberality that acknowledges the importance of divine favor and the heritage of faith. Despite his personal shortcomings, Abijam's reliance on God's covenant with David underscores the enduring nature of God's promises and the hope that remains for those who turn to Him.

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1 Kings 15:15
And he brought in the things which his father had dedicated, and the things which himself had dedicated, into the house of the LORD, silver, and gold, and vessels.
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