The Pressure to Compromise

“King Ahaz . . . saw an altar in Damascus . . . Uriah the priest built an altar in accordance with all the plans . . . King Ahaz then gave these orders to Uriah the priest . . . Uriah the priest did just as King Ahaz had ordered.” 2 Kings 16:10-16 NIV

Even before construction began, his father David had given Solomon extensive details about every aspect of the temple. Its dimensions. Every fabric and material. Every object. Solomon carefully obeyed his instructions. Finally, “the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications” (1 Kings 6:38). And, because he had been so careful to keep God’s Word, the Lord was pleased and gave His blessings.

But generations later, King Ahaz showed no concern about God or His careful plans. He saw an altar he liked and told Uriah the priest to build an altar just like it. He never consulted God but totally ignored His specific instructions.

In fact, Ahaz was shaping worship in his own way. In the process he was abusing his role as the leader of his people, and played a decisive role in corrupting his people.

But Uriah shared the blame. He was their priest and spiritual leader. He should have been more sensitive to God and His Word. But, instead of keeping His commands, he simply obeyed the king, and ignored God.

How easy it can be for us to follow the example of Ahaz and Uriah. How easily we can be seduced to follow the patterns of the world. To develop the wrong priorities. To ignore God and His Word, and simply do what we want. To do what is popular and go along with the crowd.

In your life, seek to stay true to God. Seek first His Kingdom. Follow the principles He has given in His Word. Be sensitive to His Spirit. And make Jesus your Lord.

Prayer: Father, help me to remain committed to You and Your Word. Help me to have the strength to resist the temptation to compromise or give in to pressure. Thank You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.