Now that we’re getting towards the end of 2 Kings, sometimes I find my head spinning. The scene is constantly changing from the northern kingdom (Israel) to the southern kingdom (Judah). And there is a constant stream of kings all with names that seem to start with J or A. From Jeroboam (there are 2 by this name), Jehu, Joram, Jehoram, Jehoshaphat, (can I count Jezebel?), Joash, Josiah, Jehoahaz, Jotham, Amaziah, Ahaziah, Asa, Ahab, Ahaz, Amon and so on, it is hard to keep track of who you’re reading about and where you are geographically.
I try to stop in between each change of king to get myself oriented. I ask myself where I am, who was the last king and who is the new guy coming in. It helps.
One thing you can be certain of, if the king is from the northern kingdom, he’s a bad king and does not please God. If he’s from the southern kingdom, he might be good or he might be bad, you’ll have to pay attention in the reading to sort that one out.
Today is Sunday, April 11th and I read through 2 Kings 20 today. I think I’m right on track, so this will give you and idea of how you are progressing on this noble quest we are all about. – Rich
