2 Kings 17:32-33 (MSG)
They honored and worshiped God, but not exclusively—they also appointed all sorts of priests, regardless of qualification, to conduct a variety of rites at the local fertility shrines. They honored and worshiped God, but they also kept up their devotions to the old gods of the places they had come from.
It is evident from our anchored Scripture that the people were not dedicated to God. They feared God and worshiped Him, yet at the same time they served their own gods. They pursued God with a divided heart instead of pursuing wholeheartedly. This generation could not sacrifice what they love for the sake of their relationship with God. They were consumed by things of this world, appointing all sorts of priests, regardless of qualification to aid their abomination. They refuse to choose God above anything or anyone else. What great irony it is to lose sight of what is most important and begin worshiping idols. The most important in life is to serve God alone because we are created to serve and worship Him for, He is a jealous God. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”
We live in a world today where the devotion of many has not changed their character or lifestyle. There are Christians who are at every church service however, just like sinners they are in pursuit of money, position, fame, honor, praise, a name for themselves, sex, satisfaction and all manner of sin. Many only think about God when they are in trouble, for example many turn to God when they are seriously sick, but they never think of Him when they are healthy. Some consider God only in the storm, never when life is sunny and warm. They cry out to Him when faced with problems, but never when enjoying prosperity. Most people make radical promises to God when in need but when the battle passes, so does their commitment. We find these ones always chasing after prophets instead of having a relationship with God. That is, their hearts are not with God. As believers, we cannot serve God on our own terms, we can only serve Him on His terms. It is written in Joshua 24:15 “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The time has come when we must choose who we want to serve.
Beloved, be committed to God and refuse to serve the devil as an option to serving God in the face of the trials and challenges of life. Know that, it isn’t about what others are doing, it isn’t about what’s going to make the path easier, it isn’t about what is politically correct or socially acceptable, it is all about God and His Plan for your life. Never divide your heart between God and any other thing in life. When you have done all that you can, stand and believe that God will take care of the rest. And even if He does not,, He is still God and all things work together for your good. Take a stand for God and He who has power to do all things, is wise enough to do what is best for your life. Do not adjust the Word of God to suit your lifestyle or character. Any fear of God that does not change your life is a wasted effort. Do not pretend to fear the Lord and still continue to live in sin. Make up your mind to move and act on behalf of God when others are indifferent and lukewarm to Him and His cause on the earth. Today, if you have done anything before this time at the expense of your relationship with God, repent. The Grace to serve God faithfully is released in Jesus’ Name.
O Lord, give me the grace to serve You without a divided heart in Jesus Name.