How can we guard against influences that lead us away from God? Setting the Scene King Ahaz “sacrificed and burned incense on the high places, on the hills, and under every green tree” (2 Chronicles 28:4). His heart drifted because he opened himself to pagan practices all around him. That single verse is a warning flare: ungodly influences, once welcomed, quickly take over. Identifying the Influences • High places – areas of compromise we keep “just in case.” • Hills – elevated opinions or philosophies that tower over God’s Word. • Every green tree – attractive, culturally approved practices that seem harmless but foster idolatry. Principles for Guarding Against Unholy Influences • Saturate your mind with Scripture – “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Test every influence by God’s standard – “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). • Eliminate “high places” early – Israel was told, “Tear down completely all the high places” (Deuteronomy 12:2-3). Partial obedience leaves roots. • Choose companions carefully – “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Keep worship central and exclusive – “Worship the LORD your God, and serve Him only” (Matthew 4:10). Daily worship fixes the heart on its true object. • Guard the entry points – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). Regulate music, media, conversations. • Cultivate quick repentance – When conviction comes, respond immediately (1 John 1:9). Delay allows influences to entrench. Companion Scriptures • Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” • James 4:4 – “Friendship with the world is hostility toward God.” • 2 Timothy 2:22 – “Pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Steps for Personal Application 1. List current “high places” (habits, relationships, media) that rival your devotion. 2. Replace each with a Christ-centered alternative (worship playlist, godly mentor, Bible reading plan). 3. Schedule weekly reviews: Are compromises creeping back? 4. Memorize one guarding verse a week (start with Proverbs 4:23). 5. Engage in accountable fellowship—invite trusted believers to ask hard questions. Encouragement to Continue Eliminating influences is not a one-time sweep but a daily vigilance. The Spirit supplies power; the Word supplies clarity. Keep dismantling the high places, and the hills and green trees lose their allure. |
    |