Moses used the metaphor of shepherdless sheep as he pleaded with God to call a successor to lead Israel. Subsequent prophets, and the Savior Himself, used the same metaphor to lament the absence or negligence of leaders. But Alma points out that sheep can be shepherdless by choice, if they refuse to hear their shepherd.
Asa’s Erosion of Faith
Asa started his reign on a high note. He rested on God, he and his people sought God, and God blessed him. But somehow, his faith slipped. He sought help from a Syrian king instead of God, and he imprisoned a prophet who chastised him. It's important not to become complacent during good times.
Wars Continually
After the division of Solomon's kingdom into Israel and Judah, there were wars between the two new kingdoms continually. Nephi tells us the same: he and his people had wars with his brothers and their families even after separating from them. Rifts become perpetual battles when the desire to dominate prevails.
Our Eyes Are Upon Thee
The books of Chronicles cover roughly the same period as 2 Samuel through 2 Kings, but with an emphasis on religious life in the kingdom of Judah, especially temple worship. Like Nephi and Mormon, the Chroniclers selected events that supported their purposes, and we can learn by observing their editorial decisions.
Josiah and the Book of the Law
Josiah led a spiritual revival among his people after discovering the book of the law. Lehi, who lived during Josiah's reign, prioritized carrying the written word of God to his new home. As a result, generations of his descendants were blessed and spiritually strengthened.
“I Have Heard Thy Prayer”
As Hezekiah lay dying, Isaiah reassured him that the Lord had heard his prayer. An angel provided the same assurance to King Benjamin. We may not receive an immediate response, but all who pray will eventually receive assurances that God has heard us.
Resting and Exerting Themselves
Two leaders — Hezekiah and Lachoneus — both faced threats from invading armies. Both inspired their people to trust in God. Hezekiah's people "rested" on his words; Lachoneus's people were spurred to action. In both cases, their faith in God overcame their fear and allowed them to move forward.
“If Ye Will Not Believe…”
As the king of Judah faced the invading armies of Israel and Syria, Isaiah urged him to hold firm, saying, "If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established." Nephi quoted this story, emphasizing the inseparability of stability from belief. "Believe in Christ, ... for it is by grace that we are saved."
The Compassionate Vulnerability of Prophets
In a rare editorial note, 2 Kings emphasizes that before Israel was conquered, God sent prophets to warn them. Prophets have no way to enforce their words, nor do they try. They can feel lonely, persecuted, and ineffective, but God continues to send them because He loves His children.
Dynasties and Legacies: Lessons from the Kings of Israel, Judah, and the Jaredites
We can learn important principles of leadership from the numerous kings in the books of Kings and the book of Ether. A leader's faithfulness profoundly influences both the people they lead and the generations that follow. Persistent unfaithfulness ultimately leads to captivity, as it did for Israel, Judah, and the Jaredites.