ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

READING: 1 KINGS 15:9-14

Verse 13: “Also he removed Maachah his grandmother from being queen mother, because she had made an obscene image of Asherah. And Asa cut down her obscene image and burned it by the Brook Kidron.”

“Grandma, you are fired!” Can you imagine yourself saying such a thing to your grandmother? He didn’t use those exact words, but in effect Asa, one of the kings of Judah; did precisely that. He removed his grandmother from being queen mother, just as it says above. Now that is an intense example of all out zeal for righteousness! None of us will ever be called to that particular test of righteousness, however Asa’s response should compel us to examine ourselves regarding where we stand with regard to enforcing righteous behavior. There are times when, in the face of difficult decisions to uphold righteousness, we can be tempted to use excuses and justifications. At such times, we can look to King Asa’s example. Using his behavior as our model and encouragement, we also can display a zeal for righteousness. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What do you remember as a difficult stand for righteousness you have taken?

2. How can a person know when to take a courageous stand and when to step back?