Full Of Him - King Rehoboam

When Rehoboam was firmly established and strong, he abandoned the Law of the LORD, and all Israel followed him in this sin.

2 Chronicles 12:1

You hear a lot about self-fulfillment these days. When you accomplish more, you’re told, you’ll find fulfillment. You’ll have a healthier outlook on life, your relationships, your future, and yourself—if you can just summon the strength and creativity to accomplish and acquire more.

The Bible teaches that true fulfillment and strength are found in walking closely with God and humbly obeying his commands. Consistent blessing comes when you give God the credit for everything you are and everything you accomplish.

Rehoboam didn’t get that memo.

Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, made a lot of mistakes following his ascension to the throne, and they divided his kingdom. Like his father, Rehoboam took a good look at all he had accomplished in Judah, became self-satisfied, and abandoned God and his law.

Rehoboam was so full of himself that he crowded out God’s place in his heart.

The consequences of Rehoboam’s self-satisfaction were dire. With Rehoboam leading the way, Judah slipped further away from God until the kingdom was nearly destroyed at the hands of Shishak, king of Egypt. Rehoboam had no choice but to surrender to Shishak, who ransacked the holy Temple and made Judah subservient to Egypt (see 2 Chronicles 12:9).

Rehoboam failed as a leader and as a man of God because he found strength and satisfaction in his own accomplishments rather than in God’s power and goodness.

What is your source of satisfaction?

It is easy to be self-satisfied when you look at the things you have accomplished. Lasting blessing comes when you humbly acknowledge that everything you are and everything you accomplish come from God’s generosity and kindness.