2 Kings 12-13 | 2 Chronicles 24

Joash had become king in Judah at the age of 7 years old, who had been hidden in the temple by the high priest Jehoiada, and he reigned for 40 years. Throughout all the years that Jehoiada lived as high priest, Joash was a good king. However, when Jehoiada died (130 years old), Joash started to follow the council of wicked advisors, and he not only turned away from the Lord, but had the son of Jehoiada killed when he prophesied the word of God. God brought the Arameans against Judah and humbled and looted them, and the servants of Joash conspired to kill him. He started well, but finished poorly.

In northern Israel, the continuous reign of evil kings marched forward, with Jehoahaz succeeding Jehu, and then Jehoash succeeding him. Yet, Jehoahaz did seek the Lord’s help in the face of the Arameans, and his son enjoyed some victories over them in his days, just as Elisha had foretold in the days before he died.