What modern practices might be considered "high places" in our lives today? Grasping the Old Testament Picture Israel’s “high places” were elevated sites where people mixed worship of the true God with idols. Although some kings tolerated them, God repeatedly said, “You must demolish completely all the high places” (Deuteronomy 12:2–3; cf. 2 Kings 18:4). Why God Calls Them Out • They divided loyalty: “You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20:3) • They copied surrounding culture (Leviticus 18:3). • They substituted convenience for obedience (Deuteronomy 12:5–6). Translating the Principle to Today A “high place” is anything—even a good thing—raised to a place of ultimate trust, affection, or identity, rivaling God’s rightful throne. Current High Places Many Believers Face • Materialism: the pursuit of possessions, status symbols, debt-driven lifestyles (Matthew 6:19–21). • Entertainment & media: binge-watching, gaming, music, or sports that dominate time and shape worldview (Psalm 119:37). • Career & achievement: climbing ladders at the expense of Sabbath, family, or service (Mark 8:36). • Social media & digital presence: seeking likes and followers more than God’s approval (Galatians 1:10). • Relationships: dating, marriage, or even children becoming identity sources (Luke 14:26). • Self-image & body worship: fitness, cosmetic procedures, or diets turned into obsession (1 Samuel 16:7). • Addictions: substances, pornography, gambling—modern altars demanding sacrifice (1 Corinthians 6:18–20). • Politics & ideology: allegiance to party lines or causes eclipsing kingdom priorities (Philippians 3:20). • Religious activity without heart: rituals, volunteering, or theology replacing intimacy with Christ (Isaiah 29:13). Spotting a High Place in Personal Life Ask: • Does it consume disproportionate time, money, or emotional energy? • Do I justify sin to keep it? • Would losing it threaten my sense of worth or security? “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother… yes, even his own life, he cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:26) God’s Strategy for Tearing Them Down 1. Identify: Invite the Spirit’s searchlight (Psalm 139:23–24). 2. Confess: Agree with God’s verdict (1 John 1:9). 3. Remove or realign: Some high places must be smashed; others can be subordinated (Colossians 3:5). 4. Replace: Fill the cleared space with worship, Scripture, fellowship, service (Romans 12:1–2). 5. Guard: Stay vigilant; high places are rebuilt quickly if left unattended (1 Corinthians 10:12). Living Altars of Devotion “Hezekiah trusted in the LORD… He removed the high places.” (2 Kings 18:5, 4) By daily enthroning Christ in every sphere—finances, screen time, ambitions—we echo Hezekiah’s courage and experience the freedom of undivided worship. |
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