2 Ch. 22: Ahaziah Bad Advizah

2 Chronicles 22:7 "Through Ahaziah's visit to Joram, God brought about Ahaziah's downfall. When Ahaziah arrived, he went out with Joram to meet Jehu son of Nimshi, whom the LORD had anointed to destroy the house of Ahab."

So, did Ahaziah not realize that Ahab's family was screwed up and made terrible decisions? Because he employed Ahab's advisers as his own. This choice early on wrecked his wreign. He chose not to surround himself with wise counsel, and it led to a pointless, evil, one-year reign.

He was 22 when he started on the throne. I remember when I was 22. Wise counsel was important to me, but not the most important thing. I was growing up, but my peers still had some level of influence on my life. Perhaps the same thing happened with Ahaziah. Not discounting the fact that he was a clown and came from bad stock. Perhaps the advisors made him feel like he was making the right decisions. Perhaps they feared or desired favor from this impetuous young king, and granted whatever he asked for...or demanded.

Ahaziah went to war at Ramoth Gilead, and it was against God's desires, but it ended up being how God judged him. And his family.

What's also interesting is that the temple of God is the best hiding place from a despotic leader (Athaliah). Because they wouldn't be seen there. Or ever set foot in there. Perfect place for a future king within the bloodline.