Second Chronicles 12–13 shows both the danger of spiritual pride and the power of depending upon God.

Chapter 12 records how Rehoboam became strong and then abandoned the law of the Lord. Success weakened his dependence upon God. As a result, Shishak king of Egypt invaded Judah and threatened Jerusalem.

When the prophet Shemaiah confronted Rehoboam and Judah’s leaders, they humbled themselves. God showed mercy, though consequences remained.

Chapter 13 then records war between Abijah of Judah and Jeroboam of Israel. Judah was badly outnumbered and eventually surrounded. But the people cried out to God, the priests sounded the trumpets, and the Lord gave Judah victory.

These chapters teach us that strength can become dangerous when it produces pride, humility opens the door to mercy, and overwhelming circumstances are never  ...