2 Chronicles 16:12

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa became diseased in his feet, and his malady became increasingly severe. Yet even in his illness he did not seek the LORD, but only the physicians.

Study Bible

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign
This phrase sets the historical context for the events described. Asa, the king of Judah, had a long reign, and this specific year marks a significant moment in his life. The number thirty-nine is not just a chronological marker but also a reminder of the passage of time and the accumulation of experiences and decisions that have shaped Asa's reign. Historically, Asa's reign was marked by initial faithfulness to God, but as time progressed, his reliance on God waned. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency and the need for continual dependence on God throughout one's life.

Asa became diseased in his feet
The mention of Asa's disease is not merely a physical ailment but carries a deeper spiritual significance. In the Hebrew context, physical ailments were often seen as manifestations of spiritual issues. Asa's disease in his feet can symbolize a faltering in his spiritual walk, a deviation from the path of righteousness. Feet, in biblical symbolism, often represent one's journey or walk with God. Asa's disease, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for his spiritual decline and the consequences of turning away from God.

and his malady became increasingly severe
This phrase highlights the progression and seriousness of Asa's condition. The increasing severity of his disease can be seen as a reflection of the spiritual deterioration that occurs when one persistently turns away from God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing spiritual issues early before they become more severe and harder to remedy. The historical context suggests that Asa's reliance on human solutions rather than seeking divine intervention contributed to the worsening of his condition.

Yet even in his illness
This phrase introduces a critical turning point in the narrative. Despite the severity of his condition, Asa had the opportunity to turn back to God. The word "yet" suggests a contrast between what was expected and what actually occurred. It underscores the persistent grace and mercy of God, who remains available to those who seek Him, even in times of distress. This serves as an encouragement to believers that it is never too late to seek God's help and guidance.

he did not seek the LORD
This is the crux of Asa's failure. The Hebrew root for "seek" implies an earnest, diligent pursuit. Asa's refusal to seek the LORD indicates a deliberate choice to rely on his own understanding and resources rather than turning to God. This decision reflects a heart that has grown cold and self-reliant. In the broader scriptural context, seeking the LORD is a recurring theme that emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God and the blessings that come from trusting in Him.

but only the physicians
The mention of physicians is not to condemn medical practice but to highlight Asa's misplaced trust. In the ancient Near Eastern context, physicians were often associated with pagan practices and reliance on human wisdom. Asa's exclusive reliance on physicians symbolizes a broader spiritual issue of placing trust in human solutions rather than divine intervention. This serves as a warning against the idolatry of self-reliance and the neglect of seeking God's wisdom and power in all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
King of Judah, known for his initial faithfulness to God and religious reforms, but later in life, he relied more on human wisdom than divine guidance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, over which Asa reigned. It was often in conflict with surrounding nations and the northern kingdom of Israel.

3. Physicians
In the context of ancient Judah, these were likely practitioners of medicine who relied on natural remedies and possibly pagan practices, rather than seeking divine intervention.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Wisdom
Asa's failure to seek the Lord in his illness serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relying solely on human wisdom and resources. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in all circumstances.

The Importance of Consistent Faithfulness
Asa's life demonstrates the need for consistent faithfulness to God throughout one's life. Initial zeal can wane if not continually nurtured by a relationship with God.

The Role of Prayer in Healing
While medical intervention is valuable, it should not replace seeking God through prayer. Believers are encouraged to integrate faith and prayer with medical care.

Consequences of Spiritual Neglect
Asa's account illustrates the spiritual and physical consequences of neglecting a relationship with God. It serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual health.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's reliance on physicians instead of God reflect a shift in his spiritual priorities, and what can we learn from this about maintaining our faith?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our trust in God remains strong, even when facing severe trials or illnesses?

3. How do the scriptures in Jeremiah 17:5-8 and James 5:14-15 provide guidance for balancing faith and practical action in times of need?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did you balance seeking God's guidance with taking practical steps?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your relationship with God remains a priority, even when life becomes challenging or when you experience success?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:23-24
Provides a parallel account of Asa's reign, including his illness and death, highlighting his failure to seek God.

2 Chronicles 14:2-5
Describes Asa's earlier faithfulness and reforms, contrasting his later reliance on human solutions.

Jeremiah 17:5-8
Warns against trusting in human strength over God, illustrating the spiritual principle Asa neglected.

James 5:14-15
Encourages seeking God through prayer and the church community in times of illness, contrasting Asa's approach.