2 Chronicles 11

Solomon's son, Rehoboam, wanted to fight against the rebellious tribes that would not submit to his authority. God said no. “This thing is from Me.” God had determined that the days of a united Israel and Judah were over. There was no point in sending fighting men out against their brothers from the other tribes. The Lord was working out His own will.

Rehoboam did build up fortress cities to protect Judah from any invaders who might be tempted to attack. The people that came down to Judah from the north did not travel south in order to make trouble for Rehoboam, but to join him as those who wished to remain loyal to the Lord and to the line of David. Many Levites who had lived among the northern tribes made the choice to live in Judah. Their presence there strengthened the king and provided greater stability in the kingdom, at least for a few years. Meanwhile, against the Law of Moses, the northern tribes turned to non-Levites to act as their religious leaders.

Rehoboam made wise plans for the future by choosing a successor, his son Abijah, and providing for his other descendants. This was something he could do. But who can really secure the kingdom beyond the years of his own life? It is enough to try to make a difference during the years that we live. Who can do more than that?

Only someone who can say with credibility, “I am the Resurrection,” can solve the problems of this world. Good intentions are not enough. We need a man who knows the will of our Father and is able to bring it about. We need someone who can do more than defend against invaders. We need someone who can defeat death and evil for us.

We have such a King in Jesus. All those who are faithful to God need to rally around this one King. He will secure for us an everlasting heritage. He has the power and love necessary to build an eternal kingdom. Since He lives forever, we have been granted a life beyond sin and death that will never end.