God’s Endorsement

Every candidate for public office wants to be endorsed by those who have influence with the voters.  In 2 Chronicles 14, King Asa receives the most coveted endorsement of all.  Early in his political career, Asa sought and received the endorsement of God.  Whether we are leading a nation, leading a corporation, leading a congregation, leading a family or leading ourselves, we should all be seeking God’s stamp of approval upon our efforts.

2 Chronicles 16:9 reveals a divine secret that once understood and embraced, will transform our lives.  Baasha, the king of Israel is in essence moving the southern border between Israel and Judah five miles closer to Judah than the traditional line between Israel and Judah.  King Baasha starts fortifying the city of Ramah in order to attack Asa.  Asa cuts a deal with the king of Aram to cut off his support of Israel and help Judah.  When the king of Israel hears that King Asa cut a deal with king Ben-hadad, he stops fortifying Ramah. 

​It is at this point that Hanani the seer or prophet comes to king Asa with a message.  The essence of the message was this: King Asa, you sought the wrong endorsement.  You depended on the king of Aram instead of depending on God.  Therefore, you will never defeat the king of Aram.  The Lord was going to give you the victory, but now there will be no victory. 

Why?  It is because “the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him."  What powerful imagery.  We know that God can see everything at once.  The imagery of the eyes of the Lord searching the earth speaks of involvement, intensity, and intimacy.  There is a sense of urgency.  The Lord quickly comes to the aid of those who are committed to Him.  He wants to support us.  He wants to be strong for us. 

​Having God’s endorsement can be compared to the endorsement that a politician receives.   He supports us with His resources.  He campaigns on our behalf.  He won’t work against us or help the enemy defeat us. He fights for those whose heart is committed to Him.  If you want God’s endorsement, give Him your heart.  As the primary season heats up, regardless of your party affiliation, make sure that you are endorsed by God.