Grace When I’m Compromised
March 2, 2008
This is the fourth of the “Grace” messages by Pastor James McDonald, which I will continue to share with you.
The Scripture reference is 2 Kings 21-23. Please read these chapters with me.
Compromise - “I know what is right but I don’t do it.”
- Compromise happens very slowly, it’s incremental. 2 Kings 21:1-2 tells us about Manasseh, who was twelve years old when he began to reign Judah. He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, for 55 years.
- Compromise brings God’s discipline. 2 Kings 21:9-15.
- Compromise is contagious (something that affects people around you). 2 Kings 21:19-26. When Manasseh died, Amon his son, reigned in his place. Amon was 22 years old when he began to reign. He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, as his father had done. Amon abandoned the Lord.
When Amon died, his son Josiah reigned in his place. 2 Kings 22:1-2. Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned 33 years. And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord…, and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.
Putting a stop to compromise:
1. Rebuild God’s places. 2 Kings 22:3-7. Josiah repairs the temple.
- Is God your priority in the home, in your schedule, in your life, in your walk, in your worship?
2. Reprioritize God’s Word. 2 Kings 22:8-13.
- God’s Word is food, nourishment, seed to grow my faith, and it anchors my life.
3. Repent over compromise. 2 Kings 22:18b-20. “…because your heart was penitent, and you humbled yourself before the Lord, …I have heard you, declares the Lord.”
- Is my heart penitent? (cross reference: Psalm 51:17, The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.
4. Remove God’s enemies. 2 Kings 23:1-20. Josiah destroyed all idolatry.
- Let your home be wholly for the Lord.
My prayer on this day:
O Lord, You are Worthy, Just, and True. You are the Everlasting God. You are full of glory. You are Great. Lord, I praise You.
May my life be for You today. Help me choose to do what is right and pleasing before You. Lord, I pray that You’ll be magnified. I love you O Lord, my God. Amen.
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