Why God’s People Must Guard Their Hearts
In 2 Kings 17:7-23, there is a story. It is just as real and relevant for today’s church as it was for Israel back then. Let’s break it down in simple terms, and see what it means for us right now.
The Problem: Forgetting God and Following the Crowd
The Bible tells us that Israel got into trouble. They forgot who God was. They also forgot what He had done for them. God had saved them from slavery in Egypt. After a while, they started copying the habits and beliefs of the people around them. They did this instead of listening to God. They even started worshiping fake gods, building altars everywhere, and practicing things God clearly said were wrong.
It’s easy to shake our heads and wonder how they mess up so badly. But if we’re honest, today’s church faces the same temptations. We live in a world full of voices urging us to fit in. They call us to chase after what’s popular. They also tempt us to compromise on what God says is right. Just like Israel, we risk slowly letting God slip into the background of our lives.
The Warnings: God’s Patience and Our Stubbornness
God didn’t give up on Israel right away. He sent prophets and messengers to warn them, again and again: “Turn back to me. Follow my ways. Don’t ignore my instructions.” But the people were stubborn. They thought they knew better, and they refused to listen. The more they ignored God, the further they drifted, until they couldn’t even hear Him anymore.
God still calls out to us today—sometimes through His Word, sometimes through other people, or a sense in our hearts. The question is, are we listening, or are we letting pride and stubbornness get in the way?
The Consequences: Drifting Leads to Discipline
Eventually, Israel’s choices caught up with them. Because they kept turning their backs on God, they lost His protection. They were conquered, scattered, and lost the blessings God had given them. It wasn’t because God stopped loving them. Instead, He allows us to face the results of our choices. This happens if we keep ignoring Him.
For the church today, this is a sober warning. Drifting from God—one small compromise at a time—can lead to big consequences. God wants the best for us, but He won’t force us to follow. If we keep shutting Him out, we risk losing the peace, joy, and purpose that only He can provide.
The Takeaway: A Call to Come Back
So what’s the timely word for us? It’s simple: Don’t let the world pull you away from God. Remember what He’s done in your life. Listen when He speaks, even if it’s a hard word. Don’t settle for fitting in if it means drifting away from Jesus.
God’s heart is always for restoration. No matter how far we’ve gone, He invites us to turn around and come back. Today, let’s check our hearts—are we listening to God, or just going with the flow? Are there areas where we’ve let compromise or distraction take root?
Let’s be a church that remembers, repents, and returns to our first love. God hasn’t changed, and His love and purpose for us are as strong as ever. Let’s not miss out on the blessings He has for us today!
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Minister A. Francine Green l July 2025
afrancinegreen.com 