Wednesday, July 31
Read 2 Chronicles 36
Think About It:
- As Judah got closer to Babylonian captivity, how did the evil committed by the kings relate to the length of time they ruled?
- Does it sound like the Babylonians had any consequences for taking holy vessels and treasures out of the house of God and to their land? Think about how this compares to previous times when there were stiff consequences for mishandling holy items or taking items against God’s direction in war, etc.
- What do you think about the king of Persia being charged with building God a house at Jerusalem? Not only was it not one of God’s people, but Cyrus was totally willing to do this, even after knowing Jerusalem was defeated, and it doesn’t sound like he attributed the win to other gods, as was commonplace.
Family Time:
- How old was Jehoahaz when he became king? How long was he king? (verse 2)
- How old was Jehoiakim when he became king? How long was he king? Did he follow God? (Verse 5)
- How old was Jehoiachin when he became king? How long was he king? Did he follow God? (verse 9)
- How old was Zedekiah when he became king? How long was he king? (verse 11) Did he follow God? (verse 12)
The LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia. God provided hope through a king from a different country. That was unexpected. God always provides hope for his people. Always be watching in unexpected places for God to move!
