How can we avoid being "worthless and wicked" as described in 2 Chronicles 13:7? Seeing the Scene in 2 Chronicles 13:7 “Then worthless and wicked men gathered around him to resist Rehoboam son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was young and indecisive and could not resist them.” Jeroboam’s revolt succeeded because men with no regard for God’s covenant rallied to him. Their example becomes a sober warning: anyone can slip into the same “worthless and wicked” pattern if the heart drifts from faithful obedience. Traits That Mark Worthless and Wicked Living • Disregard for God’s revealed order and authority (Numbers 16:1-3; Romans 13:1-2) • Opportunism—using moments of weakness in others for personal gain (2 Timothy 3:2-4) • Spiritual indifference that shrugs at covenant commitments (Hebrews 2:1) • Contagious influence that drags others into rebellion (1 Corinthians 15:33) Five Clear Steps to Stay Useful and Upright 1. Anchor convictions to God’s Word • Psalm 119:9, 11—hiding Scripture guards against sin • Matthew 4:4—living by every word that proceeds from God 2. Choose companions who strengthen obedience • Proverbs 13:20—walk with the wise and become wise • Psalm 1:1-3—delight in God’s law with like-hearted friends 3. Embrace godly authority instead of resisting it • Hebrews 13:17—leaders watch over souls for our benefit • 1 Peter 5:5—clothe yourselves with humility toward one another 4. Cultivate courage to stand firm, even while young or inexperienced • Joshua 1:9—be strong and courageous, for the Lord is with you • Ephesians 6:10-13—put on the full armor of God to withstand evil 5. Serve God with whole-hearted devotion • Colossians 3:23—work heartily, as for the Lord • 2 Timothy 2:21—cleansed vessels become useful to the Master Daily Practices That Guard the Heart • Unhurried time in Scripture for truth saturation • Ongoing conversation with God throughout the day • Regular fellowship, worship, and Communion with the body of Christ • Accountability relationships that allow honest correction • Prompt repentance when sin is exposed, keeping conscience tender Scripture Snapshots That Reinforce the Call • James 1:22—be doers of the word, not hearers only • Micah 6:8—act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with God • 2 Peter 1:5-8—add virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love; such qualities keep us from being ineffective or unfruitful Living the Contrast Jeroboam’s followers showed how quickly hearts become “worthless and wicked” when untethered from God’s Word, godly authority, and covenant loyalty. By holding fast to Scripture, surrounding ourselves with faithful companions, and choosing humble obedience, we stand in sharp contrast—useful vessels, ready for every good work. |
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