Insane Sins

Scripture: When Amaziah returned from slaughtering the Edomites, he brought back the gods of the people of Seir. He set them up as his own gods, bowed down to them and burned sacrifices to them. The anger of the Lord burned against Amaziah, and he sent a prophet to him, who said, “Why do you consult this people’s gods, which could not save their own people from your hand?” 2 Chronicles 25:14-15

Observation: Amaziah is said to do right in the eyes of the Lord, but not wholeheartedly. So he listened to God in organizing his troops and thus defeating the Edomites, but then sets up captured idols and worships them. The word of the unnamed prophet who comes to his is not even really prophesy, and it isn't even really all that insightful ... it's just a common-sense question: Why in the world would Amazaih worship idols after it has just been proven the Lord is with him, and these false gods have no power?

This is a pretty foolish act, and it makes no sense. If Amaziah believes in God, and has just followed his instruction in winning a battle, directly violating his most sacred laws is more than foolish - it is nearly insane. Amaziah has also proven he knows well the laws of God, through the example of how he dealt with his father's traitors but did not take retribution on their families according to the law. He of course knows he must not worship idols, and yet not only does he do so, but he selected idols that have even proven themselves to be worthless.

Application: While is completely believe in the Lord, are their areas where I knowingly violate his laws for worthless, pointless, meaningless, borderline insane reasons? Yes. Every time I think to myself "I shouldn't be doing this" and I do, I follow the way of Amaziah. I commit sins I know to be wrong - that I know God is telling me is wrong at that very moment.

When I read of Amaziah and judge his actions, I need to see myself in these situations. I believe his actions are crazy. So then are my actions. And if that is the case, then I must absolutely repent and change. I must turn away from crazy things I do, and rely more on God. If I don't, I'm insane.

Prayer: Lord, I do not see myself as evil, but I do ignore your laws from time to time even when I know what I am doing is not right in your eyes. Please forgive me of my sins and transgressions, Lord, and help me to repent. Place me on your right path, and help me walk in your ways at all times. Thank you for your love that provides for forgiveness. May I seek only your ways and your face at all times. Amen.