Observation: Just prior to this, Zimri becomes king of Israel by murdering Elah and the entire family line of Baasha, thus eliminating all familial claims to the throne. However, the army immediately declares Omri king instead. As a result, Zimri kills himself and thus his "reign" will last only seven days. However, Omri has competition for the throne, Tibni.
The acts of Zimri occurred in the 27th year of King Asa of Judah. The crowning of Omri occurred in the 31st year. Therefore, this civil war that warrants no actual discussion and is only illuded to in these two verses, lasted four years ... twice as long as the prior two kings' reigns combined. This seems like a notable historical period worthy of documentation, given the duration. However, perhaps the focus isn't duration, but purpose.
Elah ruled only two years, but the point was that he would be the last member of the family line that has taken Israel into rebellion against the Lord. Zimri ruled only one week, but the point was that he is the one who killed off that line, as prophesized. Omri will emerge ruler from this civil war, and the point will be that he will build Samaria and father Ahab, thus introducing the most terrible chapter in the descent of Israel, the rise of the Baals, and the Lord's call of Elijah to resist Ahab and Jezebel.
All of these matters are about how Israel interacts with the Lord, represented by their kings. The four years without a king ... had to do with how the Israelites were interacting with each other, and nothing to do with Yahweh. Therefore it is mentioned as a historical passing of years, but it is not covered in any detail as there is little for future generations to learn from it.
Application: This is the point of the word of God ... to instruct us all regarding the will, the ways, and the nature of Yahweh. While it is true that every element in the bible can provide such instruction, there is a proportionality to certain elements it would seem.
While I as a human may think a four-year war is important, to the Lord all that matters is that, during that time, Israel never corrected their path, and in fact proceeded to back the worst of the worst when it comes to family lines to lead Israel. No other detail matters, because it is this fact - the existence but rejection of an opportunity to change course - that provides insight into our relationship with God.
The civil war is a minor event. The lost opportunity is noteworthy.
I have opportunities every day to change my life, correct my actions, repent of past ways, and find a new path to walk with God. I lose those opportunities more often than not. I am grieved to the point of despondency by my failures in this area. And I know that, if I keep missing these opportunities, I will only end up in some darker place.
Prayer: Lord, I say it again today, please give me the strength to walk with you and in your ways every moment of every day. I ask again for forgiveness of sins. May I turn to you more and more. Amen.
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