CHAPTER SUMMARIES & DEVOTIONS: 2 Kings
Read, study, and apply each chapter in 2 Kings as you read through the Scriptures.
2 Kings 1: Ungodliness Leads to a Faithless End
Ahaziah, king of Israel, falls through a lattice and sends messengers to inquire of Baalzebub, the god of Ekron, about his recovery. Elijah intercepts the messengers and tells them that Ahaziah will die because he sought counsel from a false god instead of the Lord. Ahaziah sends soldiers to arrest Elijah, but fire from heaven consumes two groups. Finally, the king sends a third group, and Elijah goes with them to deliver God’s message. Ahaziah dies as foretold, and Jehoram becomes king.
Trusting God is vital when facing decisions. Turning to false gods or worldly solutions will only lead us away from His will. Just as Ahaziah’s fate is sealed by his choice to disregard God, our lives are shaped by the choices we make in seeking guidance. Let us look to the Lord, who alone holds the answers to life’s deepest questions, and avoid the false promises of this world.
2 Kings 2: Stepping with Confidence into God’s Purpose
Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, and Elisha takes up his mantle as the new prophet. Elisha performs miracles, such as parting the Jordan River and healing the waters of Jericho. Some youths mock Elisha, whereupon he curses them in the name of the Lord. Two bears come out of the forest and maul 42 of them. Elisha continues his ministry in Israel, demonstrating God’s power and authority through his actions.
God equips those He calls, for even human limitations do not bind His power. Just as Elisha steps into Elijah’s role confidently, we, too, must step into the roles God has for us, knowing He will equip us for every task. We must respect God’s authority and demonstrate His power in our actions. Whether in leadership or service, God’s purpose will be accomplished through faithful obedience.
2 Kings 3: Faith, Even in Desert Times
Jehoram, king of Israel, forms an alliance with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and the king of Edom to fight Moab. After traveling through the desert for seven days without water, they seek the prophet Elisha’s guidance. Elisha promises that God will provide water and deliver Moab into their hands. The armies are victorious, and Moab is defeated. However, the king of Moab sacrifices his son to his god in desperation, leading Israel to retreat.
In times of trial and uncertainty, God’s provision and direction are sure. Jehoram, Jehoshaphat, and the king of Edom faced a desperate situation, but they sought God through the prophet Elisha, and He provided. Similarly, we must turn to God in faith, trusting His ability to supply all our needs. Even in dire circumstances, God’s power is greater than any trial we face, and He will lead us through.
2 Kings 4: Trusting God’s Ability to Provide
Elisha performs miracles of provision and healing. First, he helps a widow by multiplying her oil to pay off her debts. Then, Elisha promises a child to a barren woman from Shunem, and the child is born. Later, the child dies, but Elisha raises him from the dead. Elisha also heals a pot of stew, making it safe to eat, and feeds 100 men with 20 loaves of bread, showing God’s miraculous provision.
God’s provision and miracles reveal His care for His people. Just as Elisha’s acts were signs of God’s power, we are called to trust in God’s ability to provide for every need, even in impossible life situations. We can confidently approach God in prayer, knowing He can work miraculously to meet our needs and fulfill His purposes for us.
2 Kings 5: The Significance of Humility
Naaman, a commander of the Syrian army, is healed of leprosy by Elisha after initially refusing to wash in the Jordan River as instructed. His pride almost keeps him from receiving God’s healing, but he eventually obeys. Elisha refuses Naaman’s gifts, but Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, secretly takes them from Naaman and lies about them. Elisha confronts Gehazi, and he is struck with Naaman’s leprosy as a result.
Obedience to God’s commands is crucial in receiving His blessings. Naaman’s healing came only after he humbled himself and followed God’s instructions, showing us that God’s ways are often different from our own. Pride and disobedience can lead to missed blessings, but humility and faith open the door to God’s healing and provision.
2 Kings 6: God’s Sovereignty Over Every Situation
Elisha performs more miracles, including making an axe head float and blinding an enemy army. The Syrians, under King Ben-Hadad, besiege Samaria, leading to a severe famine. Elisha prophesies that the siege will end, and it does when the Lord confuses the Syrian army, causing them to flee. Israel is delivered, but the king’s officer who doubted Elisha’s prophecy is trampled to death in the chaos.
God’s sovereignty over every situation is evident in His miraculous intervention. Just as Elisha’s words are proven true, we can trust that God’s promises will be fulfilled in our lives. Even when circumstances seem overwhelming, we can have confidence that God is at work, bringing His plans to fruition.
2 Kings 7: The Assurance of God’s Deliverance
Elisha’s prophecy of ending the famine is fulfilled when four lepers discover the Syrian army’s abandoned camp. They report the news, and the Israelites plunder the camp, finding abundant food. The king’s officer who doubted Elisha’s prophecy is trampled as foretold. The famine ends, and Israel is restored, demonstrating God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His word.
God’s promises are sure, even when circumstances seem impossible. Just as Elisha’s prophecy was fulfilled despite doubt and fear, we must trust that God will keep His promises. Our faith is tested in times of scarcity, but God’s provision will always come in His perfect timing.
2 Kings 8: Trusting God’s Perfect Timing
Elisha warns the Shunammite woman to leave her land due to a coming famine. She obeys and returns after seven years, seeking the king’s help to reclaim her property. Recounting Elisha’s miracles, Gehazi convinces the king to restore her land. Elisha then foretells Hazael’s rise to power in Aram and his brutal actions against Israel. Hazael fulfills this prophecy by killing Ben-Hadad and becoming king. Meanwhile, Jehoram reigns in Judah, followed by Ahaziah, both of whom continue in the idolatrous ways of Ahab, bringing judgment on their kingdoms.
Obedience to God’s Word brings restoration and protection. When the Shunammite woman follows Elisha’s instructions, she receives her property back with blessings. Similarly, we must trust God’s guidance even when challenging or unclear. He sees what we cannot and always acts in our best interest. By seeking Him in prayer and submitting to His will, we position ourselves to experience His provision and faithfulness in every season of life.
2 Kings 9: Called to Confront Sin
Elisha sends a young prophet to anoint Jehu as king of Israel, commanding him to destroy Ahab’s house. Jehu zealously fulfills this mission, killing Joram, Ahaziah, and Jezebel. Joram and Ahaziah die in battle, while Jezebel’s death fulfills Elijah’s prophecy—she is thrown from a window, trampled, and eaten by dogs. Jehu eradicates the wicked dynasty of Ahab, executing judgment against those who led Israel into idolatry. Jehu’s actions reflect God’s righteous judgment against sin and rebellion within the kingdom of Israel.
God calls His people to stand against sin with zeal and courage. While Jehu’s mission was specific to his time, we are called to confront sin in our own hearts and spheres of influence. This involves aligning with God’s truth, not compromising with the world’s ways, and seeking His strength to remain faithful. When we depend on His Spirit, He enables us to walk boldly and righteously, honoring His name in all we do.
2 Kings 10: Partial Obedience is Complete Compromise
Jehu continues purging Israel of idolatry by executing Ahab’s seventy sons and their associates. He also eradicates Baal worship, tricking Baal’s priests and followers into a trap and killing them. While Jehu zealously obeys God’s command to destroy Ahab’s house and idolatry, he does not fully turn from sin, as he allows the worship of golden calves to remain. His partial obedience leads to a fractured kingdom, and God begins reducing Israel’s borders during his reign as a consequence of lingering sin.
Partial obedience falls short of God’s standard. Jehu’s failure to remove all idolatry reminds us that God desires complete surrender, not half-hearted devotion. It’s tempting to hold on to areas of compromise, but true worship requires forsaking anything that competes with God’s authority in our lives. By daily examining our hearts, we can identify idols and surrender them, trusting God to give us the strength to walk in full obedience and enjoy the blessings of fellowship with Him.
2 Kings 11: Courage in the Face of Corruption
Jehoiada, the high priest, protects Joash, the only surviving son of Ahaziah, from Athaliah’s murderous plot to seize the throne. Joash is hidden in the temple for six years while Athaliah reigns. In the seventh year, Jehoiada orchestrates a coup, crowning Joash as king and having Athaliah executed. Joash’s rule begins with a renewed covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people. Baal worship is abolished, and the temple of Baal is destroyed, reestablishing true worship in Judah.
True worship requires a commitment to reject what dishonors God and embrace His covenant wholeheartedly. Like Jehoiada, believers are called to courageously protect and promote God’s purposes, even in dark times. Examine your life for areas where false allegiances or distractions from God may exist. Trust in His strength to stand firm, restore right worship, and live as His faithful servant. Be bold in cultivating a Christ-centered life that influences others for His glory.
2 Kings 12: Eternal Priorities
Joash repairs the temple during his reign by instructing priests to collect offerings for its restoration. Over time, a designated fund is established to ensure efficient use of resources. Repairs proceed under the careful oversight of faithful workers. Despite Joash’s dedication to the temple, he later succumbs to political pressures, giving treasures from the temple to Hazael, king of Aram. After Joash’s assassination, Amaziah becomes king.
Faithful stewardship honors God. Just as Joash prioritizes temple repairs, believers should care for the “temple” of their lives spiritually and physically. Stay committed to your calling without compromising under pressure. When resources and opportunities come your way, use them for His glory and with integrity. Ask the Lord for wisdom to remain faithful in small and large tasks, focusing on eternal treasures rather than temporary gain. These are the eternal priorities.
2 Kings 13: Responding to God’s Call with Faith
Jehoahaz and Jehoash, kings of Israel, lead the nation during spiritual decline. Jehoahaz seeks the Lord, and God provides temporary deliverance from the oppression of Aram. Despite this, the people persist in idolatry. Later, Elisha prophesies victories for Jehoash over Aram before his death. As a final miracle, Elisha’s bones revive a dead man when his body touches them.
God’s mercy offers hope even in spiritually dark times. His faithfulness does not depend on ours, but He desires wholehearted devotion. Trust His promises and take steps of obedience, even when circumstances seem grim. Like Jehoahaz seeking deliverance or Jehoash striking the ground, act on God’s word with faith and persistence. Rest in the truth that God is still working, even when all seems lost.
2 Kings 14: The Results of Pride vs Humility
Amaziah, king of Judah, begins his reign well, following the Lord, though not fully. He executes justice on his father’s murderers but spares their children, obeying God’s law. He wages war against Edom and grows prideful, challenging Israel’s king, Jehoash, to battle. Judah is defeated, and Jerusalem’s walls are partially destroyed. Afterward, according to Jonah’s prophecy, Jeroboam II reigns in Israel, expanding its borders.
Pride leads to downfall, but humility invites God’s grace. Avoid trusting in personal strength or success, as Amaziah does. Instead, rely on the Lord for guidance, even in victories. Guard your heart against pride by seeking His wisdom in every decision. Be faithful to His Word, knowing that obedience is better than sacrifice. Rest in His power to lead you to victories that glorify Him alone.
2 Kings 15: Finding Peace in Chaos
The kings of Judah and Israel face political turmoil and spiritual decline. Azariah (Uzziah) reigns in Judah, achieving military success but failing to remove idolatry. In Israel, a series of short-lived reigns results from political assassinations, highlighting the nation’s instability. Despite this, God’s covenant remains, preserving Judah for David’s sake while Israel spirals further into sin.
Even in seasons of instability, God’s purposes remain firm. Trust His unchanging character when life feels chaotic. Seek His will in your daily decisions, remembering that obedience to Him brings lasting peace and stability. Be faithful in the small things, knowing He is sovereign over all. Let His promises be your anchor and His Word your guide as you navigate life’s uncertainties.
2 Kings 16: Godlessness Leads to Ruin
Ahaz becomes king of Judah and leads the nation into idolatry, even sacrificing his son. Under threat from Aram and Israel, he seeks help from Assyria rather than trusting God. Assyria aids him but exacts a high cost. Ahaz alters the temple worship to imitate pagan practices, further distancing Judah from the Lord. His reign marks a spiritual low point for Judah.
Trusting in worldly solutions rather than God leads to ruin. Like Ahaz, it is easy to look for quick fixes during times of pressure. Instead, turn to God with faith and patience. Seek His guidance in prayer and Scripture, remembering that His ways are higher than ours. Surrender control to Him and avoid compromising His truth for temporary relief. Trust that He will provide and guide in His perfect timing.
2 Kings 17: Disobedience Brings Judgment—Repentance Brings Restoration
Hoshea, king of Israel, rebels against Assyria and is defeated, leading to the Assyrian captivity. This marks the end of the northern kingdom of Israel. The chapter outlines the reasons for Israel’s downfall: persistent idolatry, rejection of God’s prophets, and disobedience to His covenant. Assyria resettles foreigners in Israel, resulting in a mixed population and fusion of worship beliefs.
Disobedience to God brings judgment, but repentance brings restoration. Learn from Israel’s failure by rooting out idols in your life, whether material, relational, or spiritual. Examine your heart to ensure your worship is pure and devoted to Him alone. Seek His mercy when you falter, knowing He is faithful to forgive and restore. Walk in His ways and reflect His holiness in every area of your life.
2 Kings 18: Faith That Leads to Victory
Hezekiah begins his reign in Judah and does what is right in the Lord’s sight. He destroys idols, including the bronze serpent Moses made, which had become an object of worship. Hezekiah trusts God fully, resulting in military success and divine protection. When Assyria threatens Jerusalem, Hezekiah seeks the Lord, trusting Him to deliver Judah.
Faith in God leads to victory. Like Hezekiah, trust Him wholeheartedly, even when the odds seem insurmountable. Destroy anything in your life that takes the place of God, no matter how “good” it may seem. Remember, He is the source of all strength and deliverance. Commit your battles to Him in prayer, trusting His power and promises to sustain you. Walk faithfully in His ways, relying on His unfailing love.
2 Kings 19: God’s Power Through Prayer
Assyria’s King Sennacherib mocks the Lord, threatening Jerusalem, but Hezekiah prays, seeking God’s intervention. Isaiah then prophesies Assyria’s defeat, affirming God’s sovereignty. That night, the angel of the Lord strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, and Sennacherib returns home in defeat, only to be killed by his sons.
Prayer taps into God’s power. Hezekiah’s response to crisis is a model of faith and dependence on God. Bring your fears and burdens to Him in prayer, trusting He hears and acts according to His will. Rest in His sovereignty over every situation, no matter how dire. Be encouraged that He defends His name and His people. Stand firm in faith, knowing that nothing is beyond His control.
2 Kings 20: Faithful Stewardship of God’s Blessings
Hezekiah falls ill and is told he will die, but after praying, God extends his life by fifteen years. As a sign, the Lord causes the shadow on the sundial to move backward. Later, Hezekiah naively shows Babylonian envoys all of Judah’s treasures, prompting Isaiah to prophesy Babylon’s future conquest. Hezekiah’s reign ends with a mixed legacy.
Life and blessings are gifts from God, meant to be stewarded wisely. Seek His will in both trials and triumphs. Like Hezekiah, turn to Him in prayer for healing and guidance, but guard against pride and carelessness in handling His blessings. Remember that what you do today impacts the generations to come. Live with humility, gratitude, and a heart devoted to honoring God in every circumstance.
2 Kings 21: Faithfulness When Leaders Fail
Manasseh, son of Hezekiah, reigns in Judah and leads the nation into idolatry, reversing his father’s reforms. He rebuilds high places, worships Baal, sets up a carved image in the temple, and practices witchcraft. His actions provoke the Lord’s anger, and prophets warn of impending judgment. After Manasseh’s death, his son Amon becomes king but continues in his father’s wickedness. Amon’s servants conspire and kill him, and the people make Josiah, his son, king, in his place.
When leaders fail to honor God, individuals must remain faithful to Him. Manasseh’s choices show the devastating impact of rejecting God, but our hope lies in personal repentance and obedience. We cannot blame others for leading us astray; instead, we must align our lives with God’s Word. His grace is sufficient to sustain us, even when surrounded by unfaithfulness. Trusting Him empowers us to stand firm in a world filled with compromise.
2 Kings 22: Renewing Our Commitment to Scripture
Only eight years old, Josiah begins his reign and does what is right in the Lord’s sight. During temple repairs, the Book of the Law is discovered. Josiah’s heart is stirred as he hears its words and seeks the Lord. The prophetess Huldah declares that judgment is coming because of Judah’s sin, but Josiah will not see it due to his humility and repentance. Josiah commits to leading the nation back to God, initiating a spiritual renewal.
Revival begins with hearing and responding to God’s Word. Josiah’s humility reminds us that a softened heart before God leads to true transformation. Personal devotion to Scripture reveals areas needing repentance and change. Let us approach God’s Word with reverence, allowing it to guide our decisions and priorities. Even in challenging times, God honors those who humble themselves and seek His will, using them as instruments for spiritual renewal in their homes and communities.
2 Kings 23: Pursuing Holiness in an Unholy World
Josiah leads Judah in covenant renewal, committing to follow the Lord wholeheartedly. He purges idolatry, tearing down altars and destroying false worship practices. The Passover is reinstated with unmatched devotion. Despite Josiah’s reforms, the Lord’s anger remains because of Manasseh’s sins. Josiah dies in battle, and his successors, Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim, revert to wickedness, leading Judah further into spiritual decline.
Faithfulness requires total commitment, even when surrounded by opposition. Josiah’s actions inspire us to root out sin and honor God in every area of life. Like him, we must trust that our obedience pleases God, regardless of the broader culture’s response. Let us live with unwavering dedication, knowing God desires hearts fully devoted to Him. Though the world may not change, we can impact lives through our steadfast example.
2 Kings 24: Turning Back to God Before Judgment
Judah’s rebellion leads to its downfall under King Jehoiakim. Babylon invades, taking treasures from the temple and exiling the best of Judah’s leaders and craftsmen. Jehoiachin succeeds Jehoiakim but is also taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar. Zedekiah is placed as a puppet king, but he rebels, leading to further destruction. Judah’s sins bring about the fulfillment of God’s judgment, as foretold by His prophets.
Sin has devastating consequences, but God’s warnings are opportunities to turn back to Him. Judah’s rebellion reminds us to listen to God’s Word and repent before judgment comes. While the world offers fleeting promises, true security is found in obedience to the Lord. Let us examine our lives and root out any disobedience. God’s patience calls us to change, but we must not take His mercy for granted. Seek Him wholeheartedly and walk in His ways.
2 Kings 25: God’s Call to Repentance and Hopefulness
Nebuchadnezzar lays siege to Jerusalem, leading to its fall. The temple is burned, the walls are torn down, and the remaining treasures are taken to Babylon. Zedekiah is captured, blinded, and taken into exile. Gedaliah is appointed governor but assassinated, causing the remaining people to flee to Egypt. Jehoiachin, imprisoned for years in Babylon, is released and shown kindness by the new Babylonian king. Judah’s unfaithfulness leads to the fulfillment of God’s judgment.
God’s discipline is a call to repentance, not hopelessness. Judah’s fall shows that rejecting God’s ways leads to ruin, yet Jehoiachin’s release hints at hope and restoration. When life seems broken, remember that God’s plans are redemptive. He disciplines those He loves, drawing them back to Him. Even in the darkest moments, His mercy shines through. Trust in His faithfulness and let your heart remain steadfast in hope, knowing He works for the good of His people.