Sometimes following God’s direction requires breaking the mold of long-standing traditions. Is it always easy? Not so much. But is it worth it? Absolutely! Brandon Taylor from the B&H Bibles and Events team explains in today’s guest post. 

Asa was born to Judah’s King Abijam who ruled in Jerusalem a mere three years. Abijam was the second King of Judah who continued to lead the country further into idolatry, as the people of the kingdom of Judah seemed to sink further into depravity. Asa also had a grandmother named Maacah who is noted to have created an “obscene image of Asherah” (1 Kings 15:13).

As Asa took over the throne as the new king of Judah, it would be easy to assume that Asa would follow in the footsteps of his relatives and continue the downward spiral of idolatry in Israel. This could not have been further from the reality of what actually happened during Asa’s reign. He not only eradicated the idols of the kings before him but he also took his own grandmother off the throne because of her worship of foreign gods. The Bible says, “Asa’s heart was completely devoted to the Lord his entire life” (1 Kings 15:14). What a night and day difference from his family!

God reveals a powerful truth through King Asa. A person’s desire to worship the true God is not dependent on the actions of their relatives or even their own parents. In fact, the motivation to worship God can actually guide an individual to courageously stand up to individuals that may be close friends or even relatives for the sake of righteousness. In the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary of 1 & 2 Kings, pastor Tony Merida relates Asa’s kingship to our lives as he encourages us that, “Perhaps you grew up in a hard family. Don’t let this reality keep you from living for the glory of God” (pg. 89). What a powerful relief to know that my relationship God is not dependent on any human being–only Jesus.

Jesus is the one that requires our complete dependence and faith. The gospel is our avenue to dwell in deep relationship with God. Just as Asa was required to live in a way opposite of his parents in order to seek God, the gospel may draw tension within our homes and possibly isolate us. The end reward is worth it!

You may have grown up in a home that was gospel-centered, apathetic to the gospel, or even hostile toward the gospel. Despite your upbringing know that God graciously offers people from all backgrounds the opportunity to taste the savory satisfaction of eternally worshipping a God who is far greater than we could imagine!