v. 2 Notice that Asa did not consult the Lord. Surely he grew proud and began to trust in all that the Lord had provided for him. Here he trusted in ‘chariots and horses.’

When we lean upon our own devisings, our own wisdom and our own resources, we are bound to fall. When opposition comes, we are wise to go directly to the Lord and to wait upon His intervention. This lesson is one that we see time again throughout the history of Israel.

v. 9 “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.”

Notice also what follows: discipline for his lack of faith.

v. 10 Asa’s pride is obvious. We are wise never to rely upon our past successes, particularly in the area of faith. Today’s mercies are new. And they are meant to be used in the exercise of our faith.

v. 12 Again, the Lord was trying to get his attention to lead him to humble himself, yet he refused. Surely, the Lord was doing the same thing with the army of Baasha. He was giving opportunity to Asa to humble himself before the Lord.

And the Lord certainly does the same thing in our lives as Christians. He may or may not use armies. But He will certainly use a word of rebuke or a sickness if need be. He is jealous for our good. And it is certainly good for us to be humble. O Lord, give us the grace to be responsive to your pruning work, so that we might bear more fruit for you.

Note also that it is most difficult for us to respond in humility before the Lord’s tests of faith when we are most at ease and comfortable. This is surely why our faith in American is often so weak and pathetic.