June 25

1 Kings 14; 2 Chronicles 17
There is a sharp contrast in the leaders of Israel and Judah.  There are those, such as Jehoshaphat, who follow the Lord, against those, such as Zimri, who commit murder and follow after other gods.  In every instance where there is a leader who follows the true God, the nation prospers and the leader is blessed.  One would think that witnessing such as this would cause other leaders to emulate the good leaders, and follow the Lord.  However, the primary fall of man being pride, there are many who believe they can do it better than God.  They become a god in their own eyes, exalting themselves above the only Jehovah God.  There are many prideful leaders.  Their pride leads to their own destruction.  Unfortunately, they often take the nation down with them.  We would do well to take heed and learn the lessons provided through both types of leadership.