2 CHRONICLES 21

JEHORAM REIGNS IN JUDAH

When Jehoshaphat dies, he leaves the throne of Judah to his firstborn son, Jehoram. Although Jehoram is from the line of David, he is not a righteous king. Although he is already king, Jehoram kills all of his brothers, leaving no competition for the throne.

During Jehoram’s kingship, the people of Edom revolt against Judah and appoint their own king. Jehoram leads with wickedness, influencing the people of Judah to worship false gods.

The prophet Elijah gives Jehoram a letter which shares the words of God. The letter reveals that because of Jehoram’s wickedness, God would send a plague on Jehoram’s family and inflict him with a terrible bowel disease. Worst mail ever!

God incites the Philistines and nearby nations to invade Judah, raiding the palace and stealing all of the king’s valued possessions. Jehoram’s family is taken as well, all of his wives and sons, except for Jehoahaz, his youngest son.

Just as Elijah prophesied, Jehoram dies an embarrassing and agonizing death from his disease. After his eight-year reign, there is no mourning for his death.