SUMMARY: Pure evil
OVERVIEW: Manasseh’s destructive leadership led Israel to do more evil than the nations they previously defeated. He left a horrific legacy.
BIG IDEA: Beware of developing a rebellious spirit.
KEY VERSE: 2 Kings 21:11–12 (God’s description of Manasseh)
King Manasseh of Judah has done many detestable things. He is even more wicked than the Amorites, who lived in this land before Israel. He has caused the people of Judah to sin with his idols. So this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I will bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of those who hear about it will tingle with horror.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Don’t blame your parents or your environment for your evil choices. Yes, they shaped you, and you may not have had the same opportunities as others, but you are your own person. I created you in my image, and if you call me your Father, then my Spirit is within you. You know the right thing to do, and you know the wrong things to avoid. Every moment, a new choice is before you: do things my way or your way.
But beware of your way. You will always be attracted to the things of the world and the ideas that percolate within you. Bring those to me. Let me be the filter, helping you know what to discard and what to save. I want to protect you from the enemy and any influence he has on your life. I want to protect you from yourself. Don’t trust your instincts. Trust me. Turn to me and let me lead you today and every day. I want to bless you. I have your best interest in mind.
NEXT STEP
Live under the control of the Holy Spirit, not according to evil desires. Today, be slow to speak and slow to act. Take the extra time to pray through ideas and words before they come out of your mouth. Each hour, stop and pray. Ask God to slow you down. Ask him to help you be aware of his presence over the following hour.
LYRIC VIDEO