Asa
The King Who Started Well but Stumbled
Name Information
- Meaning: "Physician" or "Healer"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Asa was the third king of Judah and known for his early devotion to God. He removed idols, restored worship, and experienced victory by relying on the Lord. However, in later years he relied on political alliances instead of God and grew hard-hearted. His life is both an inspiration and a warning about finishing well.
⏰ Judah (Southern Kingdom)
Roles
- King of Judah
- Reformer
Relationships
- Father: Abijah
- Mother: Maakah (removed as queen mother for idolatry)
- Prophet: Azariah, Hanani
Story
Cleansed Judah of idols and restored altar worship in Jerusalem.
Faced Zerah the Ethiopian with a huge army — prayed and won through God’s help.
Led a national covenant renewal to serve the Lord.
Later hired Ben-Hadad of Aram for military help instead of trusting God.
Imprisoned the prophet Hanani for rebuking him.
Died after a painful illness, remembered for his early devotion but not his finish.
Spiritual Significance
- Removed idols and commanded Judah to seek the Lord.
- Defeated a massive Ethiopian army by relying on God.
- Entered into a covenant with the people to seek the Lord wholeheartedly.
- In later years, relied on a treaty with Aram instead of God, and was rebuked.
- Suffered disease in his feet but did not seek God’s help.
What We Can Learn
- Starting well in faith is not enough — we must finish well.
- God honors those who rely on Him fully.
- Pride can lead us to reject correction.
- We must seek God in every trial, even physical illness.
Memory Verses
The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.
— 2 Chronicles 16:9
Key Passages
- 1 Kings 15:9–24
- 2 Chronicles 14–16
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