All of us face problems and, we must find solutions. How do we do that? We have the written Word of God, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and, prayer to help us. In addition we have godly council from many friends. Some ministers specialize in helping others solve problems and, finding solutions. Do you and I still accept bad solutions at times? Yes!

Have you ever acted before you prayed or checked out the scripture. We all must plead guilty to such times in our lives. Asa, arranged good and bad solutions during his long reign as king. We can learn from him.
 

1. Guard through. . Dedicated Commitment. v 9-11
King Asa, by comparison, stands out as one of the better kings of Judah. He enjoyed a long reign and, stood for a righteous lifestyle most of these years. The text says, "He did what was right in the sight of the Lord . . . ". How did he do that? Perhaps he had a goal to be like David. Everyone can benefit from a good example. Of course our goal must be to follow the example of Jesus.

A lady played basketball with her grandson. He said "look, I am Michael Jordon." Then he stopped and asked "is Jesus better that Michael Jordon." His grandma said "Jesus is better than everyone." The boy said "well I better start practicing to be like Jesus." That is a cute story but gives a profound meaning. At this point Asa did what was right in the sight of the Lord.
 

2. Guard through . . Decisive Choices. v 12-15
We see Asa's decisive actions as he removes sinful practices, Idols, and his grandmother. He took action in cutting down images and, burning them. Do you think many people witnessed his actions? He probably made quite a spectacle to make his point. Ilike that kind of leadership.

It is an enigma why he did not remove the high places. How could he be so strong and fail to remove the High Places? We do not know but none of us live a perfect life. We must learn from others. The scripture still report ". . . nevertheless the heart of Asa was wholly devoted to the LORD all his days.
Do you think that is a comparative statement?
 

3. Guard Through . . Distinguishing Compromises. v 16-19
We may show wisdom if we investigate the possibility of a compromise. In recent months the news media reported the President evaluated some compromises. In the Bible the king was criticized by the prophet Hanani for using a political solution rather than seeking the Lord's solution. (2 Chr. 16:7-10). We may not find it easy to discern the Lord's will in all maters but it seems the king did not even consider other possibilities, and put the prophet in jail.

Asa not only investigated the compromise, he initiated it. What he intended happened and he walked away feeling good about what happened. We some times must wait several years to see if a compromise really works the desired Benefit. Let's guard against bad solutions. Amen? Amen!