The narrative  in Kings–the actual historic narrative–now returns from following Jeroboam in the north (Israel) to discussing the next three kings of Judah in the south.  Tragically, the first two kings (Rehoboam and Abijam) follow the path of Jeroboam into sin, but while they rebel, God’s promises to David allow a lamp to continue to shine.  Then God raises up Asa, a godly leader who brings restoration to the kingdom.  Well, that is for most of his life.  At the end of his life he stops trusting God and turns to His own schemes and plans.