How can we avoid similar sins mentioned in 2 Kings 17:17 today? The sobering catalogue of sin in 2 Kings 17:17 “They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire, practiced divination and soothsaying, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger.” Recognize today’s counterparts • Child sacrifice → the devaluing of unborn life, neglect, abuse, and any practice that treats children as disposable or as means to an end • Divination and soothsaying → horoscopes, tarot, psychics, occult games, New Age channeling, witchcraft, sorcery in entertainment or practice • Selling oneself to do evil → willful compromise for money, pleasure, popularity, or power; embracing lifestyles or industries directly opposed to God’s standards Guard your view of life • Psalm 127:3 – “Children are a heritage from the LORD.” • Speak for the voiceless and protect vulnerable children in practical ways: adoption support, foster care, crisis-pregnancy assistance, mentoring. • Reject media or humor that trivializes abortion, child abuse, or sexualization of minors. • Cultivate homes where discipleship, affection, and firm discipline coexist (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Refuse occult substitutes for God’s guidance • Deuteronomy 18:10-12 forbids “divination or sorcery or interpretation of omens.” • Delete occult apps, unfollow astrology accounts, dispose of crystals, cards, or charms. • When curiosity rises, immediately pray and consult Scripture instead of seeking hidden knowledge elsewhere (James 1:5). • Teach children to discern entertainment; fantasy stories can be enjoyed without endorsing real spiritual darkness (Ephesians 5:11). Commit to uncompromising integrity • Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Set clear lines at work and online: refuse lies, shady deals, sensual click-bait, or mockery of biblical values. • Practice Sabbath rhythms and generous giving to break bondage to greed and self-promotion. • Surround yourself with believers who will confront you in love when you drift (Hebrews 3:13). Fill the vacuum with wholehearted worship • 2 Kings 17:15 traces the fall to “following worthless idols and becoming worthless themselves.” • Daily Bible intake and worship music re-center desires on Christ (Colossians 3:16). • Serve in a local church; active ministry redirects time and talents away from temptation. • Remember the gospel: Jesus “gave Himself for our sins to rescue us” (Galatians 1:4). Gratitude fuels obedience more powerfully than fear alone. Live alert, yet confident • 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 assures that temptation is common and escapable through God’s faithfulness. • Stay watchful, repent quickly, and rejoice that “if we walk in the light… the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). |
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