How can we identify and remove modern "high places" in our lives? The Ancient Example: Hezekiah’s Zeal “He removed the high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites were burning incense to it. It was called Nehushtan.” (2 Kings 18:4) What Were High Places? - Elevated sites where Israel copied pagan worship practices. - Mixture of true and false devotion—an “and God” approach instead of “God alone.” - Tolerated for generations until faithful kings confronted them (1 Kings 15:14; 2 Chronicles 31:1). Modern Equivalents Anything that competes for the loyalty, affection, or trust that belongs to the Lord alone. Examples: - Entertainment or media habits that dominate time and shape worldview. - Career ambitions pursued at the expense of obedience. - Relationships prized above fidelity to Christ. - Possessions or lifestyle upgrades that quietly displace generosity. - Political or ideological loyalties that eclipse gospel priorities. - Religious symbols or traditions elevated above the Savior Himself. “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Recognizing the Signs - Compromise: bending biblical convictions to maintain access, status, or comfort (Matthew 6:24). - Emotional dependence: experiencing greater joy, peace, or security from the thing than from the Lord (Psalm 16:2,11). - Unchecked consumption: giving disproportionate time, money, or mental energy (Ephesians 5:15-16). - Defensive posture: irritation or anger when the area is questioned (Proverbs 13:10). Steps to Tear Them Down 1. Agree with God’s verdict. Call the high place what it is—idolatry (Exodus 20:3-4). 2. Remove the object or re-order its place. Hezekiah shattered, cut down, broke—decisive action (Colossians 3:5). 3. Replace with wholehearted worship. Invest the reclaimed time, resources, and affection in prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and service (Romans 12:1-2). 4. Stay accountable. Share the commitment with trusted believers who will encourage steadfast obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Guard the heart daily. “Above all guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) Cementing True Worship - Cultivate gratitude: thanking God for every good gift keeps the gift in proper perspective (James 1:17). - Practice generosity: giving breaks the grip of material high places (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). - Celebrate Christ’s sufficiency: “In Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete.” (Colossians 2:9-10) Encouragement to Persevere “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17) Like Hezekiah, believers today can choose wholehearted devotion. As high places fall, intimacy with Christ deepens, witness strengthens, and joy overflows. |
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