I remember one time when I went to a private school to pay a fee, the person in charge and I had a very interesting conversation. The chat deepened when we discovered that we were both Christians. During our conversation, a colleague came over and asked him if he wanted to participate in buying the lottery tickets for the weekend. He agreed without hesitation even though he knew I was standing in front of him. Afterwards, he turned around and told me that he did not want to offend his colleagues but was just having fun with them, and then he completed my payment as if nothing had happened. At that time, I felt very confused.

We are often inevitably drawn into various partnerships and alliances. Sometimes, for specific reasons, we may find it difficult to avoid certain groups or people, even though these choices may conflict with our spiritual principles.

2 Kings 8:16-29 tells of the reigns of Jehoram and Ahaziah, kings of Judah. Their partnership and alliance with the family of Ahab and their continued idolatry of the family of Ahab led the people of Israel to turn their backs on God and ultimately to God's judgment.

Jehoram ascended the throne of Judah and ruled for eight years. He married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, thus forming a political and religious alliance with the family of Ahab. Under Athaliah's influence, Jehoram imitated the kings of Israel, leading the people of Judah to worship idols as well. As a result, Jehoram faced civil unrest, including rebellions in Edom and Libnah.

After Jehoram's death, his son Ahaziah succeeded to the throne of Judah and ruled for only one year. Influenced by his mother Athaliah, Ahaziah continued to follow the idolatrous practices of Ahab's family. He allied himself with his uncle, Joram, king of Israel, and together they fought against Hazael, king of Aram, at Ramoth-Gilead. After Joram was wounded in battle, Ahaziah visited him at Jezreel, reflecting their close relationship. Both Ahaziah and Joram were later killed by their adversaries (2 Kings 9).

This passage clearly shows us that the Kingdom of Judah, under the influence of the house of Ahab, rebelled against God and was severely punished. It reminds us to be careful not to compromise our faith for personal gain, convenience or relationships. We must be mindful of how close association with the wrong company may affect our spiritual and moral choices. It is important to remain steadfast in our lives of faith and that our worship should be holy while being vigilant against influences that may lead us away from God’s truth.

Prayer :

Dear Father, we pray that you will give us the wisdom and strength to know right from wrong and to be confident in the face of challenges. Father, keep our hearts from partnerships and alliances that would lead us away from your truth. Help us to be steadfast in doing your will and to walk in your ways in all areas of our lives.

In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.