In what ways can we fortify our spiritual lives like Rehoboam's cities? Setting the Scene “Rehoboam lived in Jerusalem and built cities for defense in Judah.” (2 Chronicles 11:5) Just as Rehoboam raised physical strongholds around Judah, believers are called to raise spiritual strongholds around their hearts, homes, and habits. Scripture is our literal blueprint, and its principles are as sturdy today as they were in the days of the kings. Recognizing the Need for Defense • Israel’s division left Judah vulnerable; likewise, a divided heart leaves us exposed (James 1:8). • Enemies surrounded Judah; our adversary, the devil, “prowls around like a roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8). • Rehoboam responded proactively; so must we, “making no provision for the flesh” (Romans 13:14). Establishing Strong Foundations: Doctrinal Truth • “Like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24). • Fortify by daily study—“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Guard against false teaching—“Contend for the faith once for all entrusted” (Jude 3). Building Internal Walls: Personal Spiritual Disciplines • Prayer: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Fasting: Jesus assumed we would—“When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16). • Worship: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Guarding the Gates: Discernment in Relationships and Media • “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character’” (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Filter entertainment—“I will set no worthless thing before my eyes” (Psalm 101:3). • Establish boundaries so ungodly influences are stopped at the gate. Stationing Watchmen: Accountability & Fellowship • Rehoboam placed captains in every city; we place trusted believers in our lives. • “Two are better than one… if either of them falls, one can lift up the other” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). • Regular fellowship—“Not forsaking our meeting together” (Hebrews 10:25). Storing Supplies: Scripture Memorization • Cities stockpiled food; we stockpile truth. • “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Create a “storehouse” of verses for every battle—temptation, fear, doubt. Maintaining the Fortifications: Ongoing Repentance & Renewal • Walls crumble without upkeep; hearts do too. • “Search me, O God… and lead me” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Daily confession keeps cracks from widening (1 John 1:9). Trusting the Builder: Confidence in Christ • “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). • Jesus is “the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2); He secures what we strengthen. • Rest in His promise: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). Lay each stone—doctrine, discipline, discernment, fellowship—just as literally and carefully as Rehoboam laid his. The fortified life stands firm, whatever siege may come. |
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