“Moreover the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines, and of the Arabians, that were near the Ethiopians: And they came up into Judah, and brake into it, and carried away all the substance that was found in the king's house, and his sons also, and his wives; so that there was never a son left him, save Jehoahaz, the youngest of his sons. And after all this the LORD smote him in his bowels with an incurable disease. And it came to pass, that in process of time, after the end of two years, his bowels fell out by reason of his sickness: so he died of sore diseases. And his people made no burning for him, like the burning of his fathers. Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years, and departed without being desired. Howbeit they buried him in the city of David, but not in the sepulchres of the kings” (2 Chronicles 21:16-20)
Today’s Morsel: I have conducted and attended quite a few funerals lately, and I am often taken aback of those who are departing with no respect or honor. In other words, those who were hated while they lived, are neglected when they die. Only a few, if any, seem to have anything good to say about the person. And I think to myself, what did the person do that only a few family members may have anything to say. Solomon said that a good name is better to be chosen then great riches (Proverbs 22:1). The children of Israel lamented for Moses for thirty days. David lamented over Jonathan and Abner. Yet we read that Jehoram was buried in disgrace. He reigned but eight years, and then departed without being desired. To show what little affection or respect they had for him, they would not bury him in the sepulchers of the kings of his fathers. Their memory of him was far from being sweet and precious to them, and therefore they did not honor him with any kind of sweet odors or precious spices showing they desired him. Nobody valued him while he lived, and none lamented him when he died. Sad! What legacy are you leaving? What will others say about you? Will others rise up to call you blessed even when you are gone?
Sing: Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true; with thanksgiving, I’ll be a living, sanctuary for You.
Thought For Today: A good name will follow you to the grave.
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