2 Chronicles 33:11 (KJV)
Wherefore the LORD brought upon them the captains of the host of the king of Assyria, which took Manasseh among the thorns, and bound him with fetters, and carried him to Babylon.

Here is a portent of things future. The leading empire was still Assyria, the one who had destroyed Israel, but this king carried him to Babylon. Some say that at this time Essar-hadden had conquered Babylon and used their court. Others contend that Babylon had taken Assyria and was here called the king of that empire. There was a transition of power, eventually Babylon would emerge as the first of four empires prophesied in Daniel.

The king took Manasseh while he was hiding in a thicket. What a symbolic act this turned out to be, picturing Jacob’s trouble in Babylon and into the future.

Manasseh repented and was given favor of God. He was released from captivity and, more miraculously, restored to full authority; an action Manasseh was sure to not waste. Praise the Lord He allows for repentance and restoration.

On the other hand, for his son the die had already been cast. He followed in his father’s early wicked footsteps rather than those later repentant ones. I am glad there is always opportunity for repentance. But to turn to the Lord early – this is always best.

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2 Chronicles 33:11 (KJV) Turn To The Lord Early

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