“Then Asa cried out to the Lord his God, ‘O Lord, no one but you can help the powerless against the mighty! Help us, O Lord our God, for we trust in you alone. It is in your name that we have come against this vast horde. O Lord, you are our God; do not let mere men prevail against you!’ ” 14:11

Asa did what was good and pleasing in the sight of the Lord and tore down pagan shrines and idols (14:2). God granted him rest from his enemies as he directed the people to seek after Him. 

The Lord came to Asa’s rescue and helped him defeat his enemies in his time of need. As I read this, I wondered what motivated Asa into obedience and reverence to the God of Israel. 

Did he fully submit to him and understand his power? 

Or did he look back on the history of God’s people and then perform his best, godly behavior to receive God’s military favor?  
What motivates my behavior? 

Do I follow God because I love him, revere him and trust him? Or am I eyeing him as an ally and just trying to fall in line? 

Eh, sometimes both. I think a good, healthy understanding of God’s authority and power over things is appropriate. But I also love, respect and trust him. I’m praying my actions and life reflect that well. 

Asa took out the things in his path that offended God. He submitted to him. And, he looked to him and cried out when he needed help. 

If you were to weigh out your relationship with God, where is your motivation coming from? Fear, or love? 
-Carly