II Chronicles 16-18

“Because you relied on the king of Syria, and did not rely on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped you” (16:7). King Asa of Judah had removed the obvious idols in Judah (ch 15). However, threatened by enemies, Asa didn’t believe the Lord’s power was sufficient, and so he made an alliance with Syria’s king (16:2).  The prophet Hanani (16:7) rebuked Asa and told him the result would be more trouble. “You have done foolishly in this …” (16:9).

The Lord wants to “give strong support” to those who trust Him (16:9). In moments of fear or pain, when we are tempted to look elsewhere, He calls us to lean on Him completely.