The Folly of Undisciplined Zeal

There are two statements in 2 Kings that provide profound insight into the life of Jehu, one of the kings over the northern kingdom of Israel.

The first statement is one that proceeds from the lips of Jehu himself as he speaks to Jehonadab, “Come with me and see my zeal for the Lord” (2 Kings 10:16).

And zeal he had as the following verses describe his methodical destruction of all of the prophets, priests, and worshippers of Bael; it was a great and zealous act!

However, the second great revealing text is found just fifteen verses later: “But Jehu was not careful to walk in the law of the Lord the God of Israel with all of his heart…” (2 Kings 10:31). And because of that failure, opportunities to matter were squandered and judgment came.

Zealous activity for the Lord is important but can never replace a heart turned wholly to the Lord in careful and disciplined obedience. May we be a people of both great zeal for the things of God; and at the same time, disciplined, and faithfully obedient to His Word!