Slices
Prepare
Pray: ‘God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me’ (Psalm 119:33,34, The Message).
Bible passage
Asa king of Judah
9 In the twentieth year of Jeroboam king of Israel, Asa became king of Judah, 10 and he reigned in Jerusalem for forty-one years. His grandmother’s name was Maakah daughter of Abishalom.
11 Asa did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as his father David had done. 12 He expelled the male shrine-prostitutes from the land and got rid of all the idols his ancestors had made. 13 He even deposed his grandmother Maakah from her position as queen mother, because she had made a repulsive image for the worship of Asherah. Asa cut it down and burned it in the Kidron Valley. 14 Although he did not remove the high places, Asa’s heart was fully committed to the Lord all his life. 15 He brought into the temple of the Lord the silver and gold and the articles that he and his father had dedicated.
16 There was war between Asa and Baasha king of Israel throughout their reigns. 17 Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah and fortified Ramah to prevent anyone from leaving or entering the territory of Asa king of Judah.
18 Asa then took all the silver and gold that was left in the treasuries of the Lord’s temple and of his own palace. He entrusted it to his officials and sent them to Ben-Hadad son of Tabrimmon, the son of Hezion, the king of Aram, who was ruling in Damascus. 19 ‘Let there be a treaty between me and you,’ he said, ‘as there was between my father and your father. See, I am sending you a gift of silver and gold. Now break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel so that he will withdraw from me.’
20 Ben-Hadad agreed with King Asa and sent the commanders of his forces against the towns of Israel. He conquered Ijon, Dan, Abel Beth Maakah and all Kinnereth in addition to Naphtali. 21 When Baasha heard this, he stopped building Ramah and withdrew to Tirzah. 22 Then King Asa issued an order to all Judah – no one was exempt – and they carried away from Ramah the stones and timber Baasha had been using there. With them King Asa built up Geba in Benjamin, and also Mizpah.
23 As for all the other events of Asa’s reign, all his achievements, all he did and the cities he built, are they not written in the book of the annals of the kings of Judah? In his old age, however, his feet became diseased. 24 Then Asa rested with his ancestors and was buried with them in the city of his father David. And Jehoshaphat his son succeeded him as king.
Explore
Abijah (not to be confused with Ahijah the prophet from 1 Kings 11) follows his father Rehoboam onto the throne of Judah (v 1). He is David’s great-grandson but sadly, ‘He committed all the sins his father had done before him; his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God’ (v 3).
Fortunately, he only lasts three years. He is then replaced by his son Asa, who reigns for 41 years. What a contrast between the two kings! How refreshing to read that King Asa does what is right, and his heart is fully committed to the Lord all his life (vs 11,14). Interestingly, Asa’s name means ‘healer’. He lives up to this as he cleanses his kingdom of idols, especially Asherah poles (usually made of wood, to honour the pagan fertility goddess of the same name). Also associated with Baal, they are described as repulsive (vs 12,13). Asa even deposes his own grandmother, burning the Asherah pole she has made. These ruthless acts send a clear message to the people of Judah but need great courage on Asa’s part as he takes such decisive action. It seems that God’s purposes are being fulfilled through his reign.
Respond
What might represent the worship of Asherah poles today? Pray for individuals you know or churches working in local communities to offer Christian alternatives to unhelpful practices.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: 2 Kings 19,20; 2 Corinthians 8
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for Fi Messenger, Children and Families worker with Mission Partner Archway Trust in Northamptonshire, and the volunteers and Flourish leaders as they work in village schools and run activities, craft clubs, prayer spaces, holiday clubs and toddler groups.
Because a strong start begins with smart preparation
Starting secondary school is more than new classrooms and new friends. It’s a season of growth, challenge and discovery. For some children, it’s exciting. For many, it’s overwhelming. And for all, it’s a defining moment.
That’s why It’s Your Move exists – to help children step into this new chapter with faith, courage and confidence.
For over 25 years, this trusted guide has supported more than 2.5 million children, offering practical advice, emotional guidance and encouragement rooted in Christian values.
Practical guidance you can trust.
Inside this 80-page guide, children will find:
✅ Real stories from pupils who’ve trusted God and themselves during the transition
✅ Guidance on friendships, confidence, homework and facing fears like bullying
✅ Space to reflect, pray and process emotions
✅ Encouragement and hope rooted in scripture
This isn’t just a book – it’s reassurance in their backpack.
Plus, every purchase includes instant access to:
✅ Student experience videos
✅ Assembly & lesson plans
✅ Creative tools to help children process the move
Secondary school is coming whether children feel ready or not. Let’s make sure they step forward grounded in faith, guided by hope and prepared with practical wisdom.
Get your copy here.
