What modern "high places" might we need to remove from our lives? High Places in Ancient Israel 2 Kings 18:4 tells us that Hezekiah “removed the high places, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles.” In Israel, “high places” were literal hilltop shrines where people mixed true worship with idolatry. God demanded they be torn down because He alone deserved Israel’s devotion (Exodus 20:3). Why the Image Still Matters Although we don’t face stone altars to Baal on neighborhood hills, the principle is unchanged: anything that competes with the Lord’s rightful first place is a “high place” that must go (1 John 5:21; Colossians 3:5). Common Modern High Places • Entertainment Obsession – Streaming binges, gaming marathons, or celebrity culture that steals time meant for God. • Material Accumulation – Relentless upgrading of gadgets, clothes, cars—when possessions define worth (Luke 12:15). • Career Worship – Making advancement the ultimate goal, sacrificing family, church, and integrity to climb (Matthew 16:26). • Social Media Validation – Living for likes, shares, and followers instead of the Father’s approval (Galatians 1:10). • Romantic Relationships – Placing a dating partner or spouse above obedience to Christ (Matthew 10:37). • Physical Appearance & Fitness – Obsessing over body image, diet, or gym routines to the point of idolatry (1 Timothy 4:8). • Political Ideology – Trusting a party or platform more than God’s sovereignty, allowing it to shape identity and hope (Psalm 146:3). • Personal Comfort – Avoiding any risk, sacrifice, or discomfort required by obedience (Luke 9:23). • Traditions & Rituals – Elevating denominational customs, family heritage, or sentimental practices above Scripture (Mark 7:8-9). • Addictive Substances & Behaviors – Alcohol, drugs, pornography, compulsive spending—anything that enslaves (1 Corinthians 6:12). How to Tear Down Today’s High Places 1. Identify the Rival • Ask what consistently claims your prime attention, affection, or trust (Colossians 3:2). 2. Confess and Repent • Name it before God; agree with Him that it doesn’t belong on the throne (1 John 1:9). 3. Remove or Restructure • Set limits, install safeguards, or even eliminate the source when necessary (Matthew 5:29-30). 4. Replace with Worship • Fill the reclaimed space with Scripture, prayer, fellowship, and service (Psalm 119:11; Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Persevere in Accountability • Invite trusted believers to check in and encourage persistence (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Blessings of Cleared High Places • Unhindered fellowship with God (James 4:8). • Renewed freedom and peace (John 8:36). • Greater fruitfulness for Christ’s kingdom (John 15:5). • A testimony that directs others to the only true God (1 Peter 2:12). |
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