July 14

A strong start doesn’t guarantee a faithful finish. King Asa began his reign with bold obedience and spiritual renewal. In 2 Chronicles 15, we see a man who removed idols, repaired the altar, and led the people back to covenant faithfulness. God gave him peace because his heart was fully committed—for a time.

But in chapter 16, everything shifts. Faced with threat and uncertainty, Asa relies on political alliances rather than the Lord. When rebuked by a prophet, instead of repenting, he becomes defensive and angry. Even in sickness, he refuses to seek the Lord. His story is a sobering reminder that pride, fear, and comfort can slowly harden a once-tender heart.

1 Kings 16 paints a similar picture on a national scale—kings turning further from God, doing evil, and leading Israel deeper into rebellion. Leadership disconnected from God always leads to destruction.

In contrast, Philemon gives us a beautiful example of gospel transformation. Paul appeals to Philemon not as a superior, but as a brother, asking him to forgive and receive Onesimus, a runaway slave, as family. This short letter is saturated with humility, grace, and reconciliation—exactly what Asa rejected in his later years.

These passages invite us to examine our own hearts. Are we still listening to correction? Are we willing to change when God confronts us? Will we continue in faith even when things are hard—or will we lean on our own strength?

God is not looking for perfect people. He’s looking for hearts that stay soft, humble, and fully His.

To receive daily One Year Bible devotionals directly to your email, sign up here.