What modern "high places" might distract us from true worship of God? Setting the Scene from 2 Kings 18:4 “He removed the high places, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He also broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had burned incense to it. It was called Nehushtan.” Understanding Ancient High Places • Elevated sites used for sacrifices and ceremonies that God had expressly forbidden (Deuteronomy 12:2–3). • They mixed true worship with pagan practices, diluting devotion and leading hearts away from the LORD. • Hezekiah’s reforms show wholehearted obedience: every rival object, even the bronze serpent with a rich history, had to go. Identifying Today’s “High Places” Anything that competes with undivided love for God can function like those ancient altars: • Social media platforms that consume time, shape identity, and feed comparison. • Career ambition and the relentless pursuit of success, titles, or financial security. • Materialism: houses, cars, gadgets, and the constant upgrade mentality. • Entertainment and screen culture—binge-watching, gaming, streaming—absorbing affections meant for the Lord. • Relationships elevated above obedience to Christ: dating, marriage, friendships, or even children. • Personal image: fitness, fashion, or online personas curated for applause. • Nationalism or political ideology placed above allegiance to the kingdom of God. • Comfort and convenience that mute the call to sacrificial discipleship. • Technology confidence—a quiet trust in innovation instead of dependence on the Creator. Practical Steps to Tear Down Modern High Places • Examine the heart under the light of God’s Word (Psalm 139:23-24). • Confess misplaced allegiance, agreeing with God about its seriousness (1 John 1:9). • Set wise boundaries—time limits, spending caps, digital fasts, or accountability partners. • Replace distraction with devotion: Scripture intake, prayer, gathered worship, and service. • Invite trusted believers to speak truth when a “high place” creeps back. • Steward money, talent, and time as offerings to Christ rather than trophies of self. • Keep eternity in view; only what is done for Christ will last (Colossians 3:1-2). Scripture That Reinforces the Call to Exclusive Worship • “You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20:3) • “No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24) • “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) • “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) • “Friendship with the world is hostility toward God.” (James 4:4) Encouragement to Live Undivided The same Spirit who empowered Hezekiah to smash the high places now indwells believers. Yield to Him daily, treasuring Christ above every rival, and experience the freedom and joy of single-hearted worship. |
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