The Shift

If you have ever read through 2 Kings, you’ll recognize the shift of God’s presence is directly proportionate to the priorities of the king in power. There is a prevalent pattern with the succession of kings that includes their rise to power and God’s desire to see them dedicate the people and kingdom back to Him. As was often the case, this required them to kill everyone who opposes God’s way and to destroy the idols and demolish the high places – the places of worship to false god’s and beliefs.

This is also a picture of what desires when a person comes into a relationship with Him. Yes, He accepts us as we are and loves us unquestionably regardless of our sin, BUT He doesn’t want us to stay that way. In fact, He requires that we make a shift in our motives and actions. If we are truly going to be the people of God, and have Him as our King, then we need to get rid of everything that opposes Him.

Things that oppose God:

• Relationships that are unequally yoked. Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Don’t become partners with those who reject God. How can you make a partnership out of right and wrong? That’s not partnership; that’s war” (MSG). (See also 1 Corinthians 5:11.)
• Habits that hurt or hinder your growth (body, mind, and spirit). “May God himself, the God os peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul (mind & emotions), and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Some examples could be: poor sleeping habits, lack of a proper diet, neglecting daily time in prayer and devotions, too much TV, social media or video games, substance abuse.
• Things that we love and honor more than God are called idols and lead to idolatry. The first two commands speak very clearly on this (Exodus 20:3-4) stating that we should have no others gods besides Him or any graven images. You may not physically pray to a false god or bow before Baal, but “things” can be considered an idol when they receive the honor of our schedules (time), our energy (talents), and our bank account (treasure). This includes love of money, power, career, possessions, or anything that we may place before our relationship with Him.
• Compromising influences. “Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins (corrupts) good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33, EVS). Relationships were already mentioned, but this also includes outside influences. We know more than we are willing to admit that “garbage in, garbage out.” We need to prioritize allowing God honoring inputs into our eyes and ears. Be very aware of the music you listen to, TV that you watch, and social media that you participate in.

Application

A shift in kingship – rulership – means a shift in worship. A shift in worship means a shift in lifestyle. A shift in lifestyle results in a shift in blessing and legacy.

Who is you king in your life? What things do you need to consider removing from your life that can be considered an idol? In what way can you make a shift in your worship with your time, talent, and treasure? What are the blessings you have seen as a result of making God the king of your life?