(story told in 1 Kings 15:8-24; 2 Chronicles 14-16)
Asa became king of Judah after his father Abijah and ruled during a time of idolatry and unrest. From the beginning of his reign, Asa determined to follow the Lord wholeheartedly. He removed idols, destroyed pagan altars, and commanded the people to seek the Lord and obey His laws. Because of his faithfulness, God gave Judah peace for many years, and Asa used that time to strengthen the nation’s defenses and restore true worship.
When a vast army from Ethiopia came to attack Judah, Asa did not rely on his own strength or his soldiers. Instead, he prayed, saying, “Lord, there is no one like You to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O Lord our God.” God answered his prayer, and Judah won a miraculous victory. This moment showed Asa’s deep trust in God and his belief that true strength comes from the Lord.
Afterward, a prophet encouraged Asa to keep seeking God. Inspired, Asa continued to reform the land, renewing the people’s commitment to serve the Lord. He even removed his grandmother from her royal position because she had built an idol. Asa’s faith brought revival and peace to Judah for many years.
Later in life, however, Asa began to rely more on human help than on God. When Israel threatened Judah, he made an alliance with Syria instead of trusting in the Lord. A prophet rebuked him, warning that he had acted foolishly. Asa became angry and hardened his heart, even mistreating those who corrected him.
Despite his failures, Asa’s early years remain an example of faith and devotion. His life reminds us that trusting God brings peace and victory, but turning away from Him leads to struggle and regret.