How can we identify and remove "high places" in our own lives today? Setting the Scene “He removed the high places, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles.” (2 Kings 18:4) When King Hezekiah began his reign, his first major reform was to eliminate every location that tempted Judah to worship something or someone other than the LORD. Those ancient hills remind us that idolatry can percolate in the most respectable corners of life unless it is identified and torn down. What Were High Places? • Outdoor sites—often elevated—dedicated to sacrifices, feasts, or private devotions (1 Kings 13:32). • Mixed worship: people claimed loyalty to Yahweh yet added Canaanite rituals (2 Kings 17:32-34). • God’s verdict: “You must utterly destroy all the places…break down their altars, smash their sacred stones” (Deuteronomy 12:2-3). Why They Matter Today The geography has changed, but the human heart has not. Anything cherished above wholehearted obedience to Christ becomes a modern “high place” (1 John 5:21). Spotting Our Modern High Places Look for areas that: • Compete with—or quietly replace—time in the Word and prayer. • Shape decisions more than the voice of God (careers, relationships, possessions). • Promise security or identity apart from Christ (finances, reputation, social media influence). • Are defended when the Spirit brings conviction (“That’s just who I am,” “I deserve this”). • Remain off-limits when others exhort us (Proverbs 27:6). Signs a High Place Has Taken Root • Persistent rationalization: “It isn’t wrong if I keep it in balance.” • Chronic worry whenever it’s threatened (Matthew 6:24-34). • Dullness toward worship, yet excitement for the rival pursuit. • Secretiveness or isolation (John 3:19-20). Steps to Tear Them Down 1. Name it honestly before God (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Expose it to Scripture’s light: “Therefore, beloved, flee from idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14). 3. Remove practical access points—delete apps, set spending limits, end sinful relationships (Matthew 5:29-30). 4. Replace the void with worship: invest the reclaimed time, money, and energy in kingdom purposes (Romans 12:1-2). 5. Invite accountability; Hezekiah acted publicly, not privately (Hebrews 10:24-25). Staying Clear of Rebuilding • Guard daily habits—small compromises rebuild altars brick by brick. • Maintain gratitude; thanksgiving keeps the heart satisfied in Christ (Colossians 3:15-17). • Celebrate victories but stay alert; later kings let high places return (2 Kings 21:1-3). • Fix hope on the greater King who cleanses the temple of our hearts—Jesus, who “gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness” (Titus 2:14). |
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