How can we promote righteousness in our communities, contrasting Jehoram's actions? Jehoram’s Downward Example “Jehoram had also built high places on the hills of Judah; he had caused the people of Jerusalem to prostitute themselves and had led Judah astray.” – 2 Chronicles 21:11 - Jehoram used his influence to normalize idolatry. - His leadership fostered moral decay, dragging the whole nation with him. - The text shows how quickly a community follows when leaders abandon the LORD’s standards. Righteousness Begins with Personal Integrity - Proverbs 14:34: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” - Personal holiness is the seedbed of public righteousness. - Daily choices—what we watch, say, consume—either elevate or erode the moral tone around us. - Romans 12:2 calls every believer to resist cultural pressure and renew the mind. Cultivating God-Centered Worship - Jehoram built “high places”; we build worship by gathering faithfully with Christ’s body (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Family altars: regular Scripture reading and prayer at home keep affections fixed on the LORD. - Music, media, and celebrations that honor God replace the counterfeit “high places” of our day. Guarding Against Compromise - 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” - Evaluate partnerships, entertainment, and career paths through a biblical lens. - Refuse policies or practices that violate God’s Word, even when they promise short-term gain. Strengthening the Next Generation - Deuteronomy 6:6-7 urges teaching children diligently. - Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness; involve youth in service projects. - Mentor teens to stand firm, avoiding the “prostitution” of their convictions to cultural idols. Engaging Publicly with Truth and Compassion - Micah 6:8 outlines acting justly, loving mercy, walking humbly. - Support laws that protect life, marriage, religious liberty. - Serve the marginalized: food drives, foster care, prison ministry demonstrate righteousness in action (James 1:27). Living as Salt and Light - Matthew 5:13-16 encourages visible good works that glorify the Father. - Speak graciously on social media, countering deception with Scripture. - Model forgiveness and reconciliation in neighborhood disputes. Depending on the Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:16 promises victory over the flesh when we “walk by the Spirit.” - Corporate prayer meetings invite divine power that human strategies lack. - Spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace—offers an attractive contrast to Jehoram-like disorder. Putting It All Together - Reject the high places of our era; enthrone Christ in every sphere. - Nurture personal purity, family worship, and public justice. - As believers live and lead this way, entire communities taste the blessing Jehoram forfeited. |
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