II Chronicles 12-13

“They may learn the difference between My service and the service of the kingdoms of the countries” (12:8).  It says that “when the kingdom of Rehoboam [Judah] was established and strong that he … forsook the law of the Lord” (12:1).  In their arrogance, they thought they didn’t need God’s protection anymore.  Therefore, God allowed Shishak, king of Egypt, to invade Judah.  King Rehoboam humbled himself and God responded, but he still had to give tribute to Egypt. 

Rejecting God’s authority didn’t make Israel free; it only made them servants of someone else.  True freedom is joyfully submitting to the reign of the King who loves us.