SUMMARY: Israel exiled
OVERVIEW: Assyria invades Israel and deports Israelites to Assyria. Assyria then sends groups of people to settle in vacant Israel, bringing their religious practices with them.
BIG IDEA: Worship God alone.
KEY VERSE: 2 Kings 17:7 (Result of disobedience)
This disaster came upon the people of Israel because they worshiped other gods. They sinned against the Lord their God, who had brought them safely out of Egypt and had rescued them from the power of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I rescued Israel from slavery and brought them safely out of Egypt. I showed them my power and told them I would guide and provide for them always. I do the same for you—protecting you and directing you—but, like Israel, you often turn from me and go your own way. That does not change how I feel about you, but I’m reminding you that for you to experience life as I intended, you must worship me alone. Learn from Israel’s mistakes.
Don’t fear others more than you revere me. I am merciful, but I am also all-powerful, and I will judge sin. Don’t put other gods before me. Your gods might not be leaders of world religions. They might be your free time, or your goals, or relationships. Don’t be stubborn, refusing to follow me because you or a “cutting-edge” thinker wants to go another direction. Learn to listen—don’t ignore me. I am here right now—inviting you to surrender your fears; trust me. Lay your dreams and plans at my feet; allow me to evaluate them. I can improve them or help you go in a different direction. Trust me and follow me.
NEXT STEP
Are there any sins you are guilty of because you trust in yourself or another’s plan more than God? Consider the examples from 2 Kings 17 or from above. Then review today’s Key Verse and ask God for forgiveness. Thank him for how he has provided for you, time and time again.
LYRIC VIDEO