All of the kings of Israel and Judah can get quiet confusing and everything starts to run together. Below is a list of the kings in 2 Kings 13-16.
Israel: Jehoahaz did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (13:2). Jehoash did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (13:11). Jeroboam II did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (14:24). Zechariah did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (15:9). Shallum reigned only one month and was killed by Menahem (15:13). Menahem did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (15:18). Pekahiah did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (15:24). Pekah did what was evil in the sight of the Lord (15:28).
Judah: Amaziah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord except for the high places (14:3-4). Azariah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord except for the high places (15:3-4). Jotham did what was right in the eyes of the Lord except for the high places (15:34-35). Ahaz did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord but walked in the way of the kings of Israel (16:2-3).
A couple of things become painfully obvious. First, you know Israel will soon face the judgment of God because of her persistent rebellion and idolatry. Second, you know Judah will soon follow because she has just turned the corner. Also, the kings of Israel were said to walk in the way of Jeroboam, the first king of Israel. He pointed them in the wrong direction from the start, and they never recovered! Beginnings are very important! As far as the kings of Judah, they were so close but never fully trusting in the Lord alone. They always kept the high places operating, and soon enough, those high places took over! A little compromise goes a long way!
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