In what ways can we identify and remove "high places" in our hearts? Setting the Scene 2 Kings 18:4: “He removed the high places, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze serpent Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had burned incense to it. It was called Nehushtan.” What High Places Looked Like Then • Elevated sites where people blended true worship with pagan practices • Objects—even once-good ones—turned into idols (the bronze serpent) • Public, visible spots of compromise that diluted wholehearted obedience What High Places Look Like Now • Anything in the heart that rivals Christ for affection or authority • Good gifts (family, work, technology, ministry) exalted above the Giver • Secret sins or cherished habits defended instead of surrendered • Doctrinal compromises that keep peace with culture rather than truth Seeing the Hidden Altars • Hold life up to the mirror of Scripture—Hebrews 4:12 exposes motives • Invite the Spirit’s searchlight—Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, O God… and lead me in the everlasting way.” • Notice where obedience stalls, excuses multiply, or emotions spike when touched • Trace recurring thought patterns—2 Corinthians 10:5 urges taking “every thought captive.” • Watch spending, browsing, and leisure habits; budgets and calendars reveal loyalties Tearing Them Down • Repent decisively, like Hezekiah “smashed” and “cut down” every idol—Acts 3:19 • Name the idol specifically; vague confessions leave altars standing • Replace with focused worship: Romans 12:1-2 calls for living sacrifice, mind renewal • Saturate heart and home with the Word—Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ richly dwell…” • Establish new disciplines that starve the idol and feed devotion (fasting, accountability, generous giving, device limits) Keeping the Ground Clear • Regular self-examination during communion or personal devotion, guarding against rebuilds • Surround yourself with believers who lovingly confront—Hebrews 10:24-25 • Celebrate victories to reinforce zeal, just as Judah prospered after reforms—2 Chronicles 31:21 • Stay alert; 1 John 5:21 concludes, “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” Living on Leveled Ground High places fall when Christ alone is enthroned. Continual repentance, intentional worship, and watchful fellowship keep the landscape of the heart clear for wholehearted obedience and joy. |
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