1 Kings 15:11-12
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It's easy to read this and just think "he was a good king." But notice it says he did right "as David his father had done." This isn't just saying he followed David's example; it's a direct comparison to a specific kind of righteousness – one that God recognizes and commends, setting a high bar for kingship.
And Asa did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as David his father had done. He put away the male cult prostitutes out of the land and removed all the idols that his fathers had made.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse appears within a genealogy of kings, highlighting the reigns of Asa of Judah and his ancestors. It contrasts Asa's faithfulness with the preceding kings of Israel and Judah who often strayed. Immediately following this, the text details the specific reforms Asa enacted, showing how his actions were indeed aligned with the righteous example of King David.
Ever wonder what it really takes to please God, especially when you're in a position of leadership? King Asa's story gives us a powerful clue.
This verse sets a high bar for King Asa by comparing him to David. David, despite his significant flaws, is consistently held up as the gold standard for Israelite kings.
The Davidic Legacy
David is remembered not for his perfection, but for his heart for God. He was a worshipper, a warrior, and a man who, even after his sin, repented deeply. His reign was marked by a commitment to God's covenant and statutes, setting a precedent that subsequent kings were measured against.
Asa's Commendation
By stating Asa 'did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as David his father had done,' the text immediately signals Asa's kingly success. It's not just about avoiding outright evil; it's about actively pursuing obedience and a right relationship with God, mirroring the best of David's legacy.
What does it truly mean to 'do what is right' in God's eyes? It's more than just following rules; it's about the deep-seated attitude of the heart.
The phrase 'did what was right in the eyes of the LORD' points to a core biblical concept: genuine, internal obedience. It wasn't just about outward appearances or political expediency for Asa.
Beyond the Surface
God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). For Asa, this meant actively purging idolatry, seeking God, and ruling justly. His actions weren't just legalistic ticks; they stemmed from a desire to honor God and lead his people in covenant faithfulness.
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A Pattern of Devotion
His father David, despite his failings, continually returned to a place of repentance and devotion. Asa's adherence to this standard shows he understood that true righteousness is a continuous posture of the heart before God, not a one-time achievement.
Understand the original words
yashar · Hebrew Adjective
In biblical usage, 'right' refers to moral rectitude or actions that align with God's revealed will and law. It signifies an objective standard of conduct established by God's character.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
Referring to Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel who revealed Himself to Moses at the burning bush. It is the personal, proper name of the God of the Bible.
qadesh · Hebrew Noun
Men dedicated to pagan temple service, often involving ritualistic sexual acts associated with fertility cults; they were strictly forbidden by the Law of Moses.
gillulim · Hebrew Noun
Any object, image, or representation that is worshipped in place of or alongside the true God. Idolatry is defined as a violation of the first and second commandments.
Asa's reign occurred in the turbulent aftermath of the kingdom's division, a time when the temptation for syncretism and political expediency was high. His faithfulness, explicitly compared to David's, stood in stark contrast to the spiritual decline seen in many other rulers and kingdoms of that era.
c. 970 BC
Death of King David
David, the beloved king of Israel, dies after a long and significant reign, leaving behind a legacy of faith and military success, but also a kingdom with simmering internal tensions.
c. 970-931 BC
Reign of Solomon
Solomon, David's son, succeeds him. While initially wise and favored by God, his later years are marked by idolatry and excessive building projects that strain the kingdom.
c. 931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Solomon's death, the united kingdom splits into two: the Northern Kingdom of Israel (ten tribes) and the Southern Kingdom of Judah (two tribes, including the Davidic line).
c. 911-870 BC— this verse
Reign of Asa of Judah
Asa becomes king of Judah. He is noted for his zeal in removing idolatry and promoting true worship, earning praise in Scripture.
c. 900 BC
War with Israel
Asa faces military threats, including a significant conflict with Baasha, king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, during his reign.
This verse echoes the promise God made to David about his dynasty continuing forever, highlighting the standard of faithfulness Asa was measured against and sought to emulate.
Psalm 101:2David's own declaration of his commitment to walk in the way of integrity and righteousness provides a direct example of the kind of righteous life that Asa is said to have followed.
1 Kings 11:4-6This passage describes David's later failings, showing that 'as David his father had done' wasn't about perfection, but about David's core devotion to God despite his sins, a nuance Asa seemingly embraced.
2 Chronicles 15:17This verse, from a parallel account, clarifies that while Asa removed high places, he didn't eradicate them completely, offering a more detailed perspective on how Asa followed David's example with a mix of success and imperfection.
It's easy to read this and just think "he was a good king." But notice it says he did right "as David his father had done." This isn't just saying he followed David's example; it's a direct comparison to a specific kind of righteousness – one that God recognizes and commends, setting a high bar for kingship.
This verse appears within a genealogy of kings, highlighting the reigns of Asa of Judah and his ancestors. It contrasts Asa's faithfulness with the preceding kings of Israel and Judah who often strayed. Immediately following this, the text details the specific reforms Asa enacted, showing how his actions were indeed aligned with the righteous example of King David.
This verse appears within a genealogy of kings, highlighting the reigns of Asa of Judah and his ancestors. It contrasts Asa's faithfulness with the preceding kings of Israel and Judah who often strayed. Immediately following this, the text details the specific reforms Asa enacted, showing how his actions were indeed aligned with the righteous example of King David.
"And Asa did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as David his father had done. He put away the male cult prostitutes out of the land and removed all the idols that his fathers had made." — It's easy to read this and just think "he was a good king." But notice it says he did right "as David his father had done." This isn't just saying he followed David's example; it's a direct compariso…
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Last reviewed October 2026
