Stone Movers (July 1)

Judah's leaders are like those who move boundary stones.  I will pour my wrath out on them like a flood of water.

For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,and acknowledgement of God rather than burnt offerings.

                                From Isaiah 5 & 6 NIV

In his time of trouble King Ahaz became even more unfaithful to the Lord.
                                2 Chronicles 28:22 NIV

We can consider God's desire for us, to show mercy and to acknowledge Him in all our ways.  He does not desire sacrifice, however sacrifice is needed to restore one to community after sin. 

Leadership of Judah is described in uncomplimentary terms today by comparing them to ones who move boundary stones.  Movers of boundary stones lead to strife, conflict, and war.  These leaders, in their leadership roles, did not nurture fruits of the Spirit.  

King Ahaz is given as a poor example of one who, in times of trouble turned away from the path of the Lord.  We can read in the timeline at the front of our Chronologic Bible that Ahaz reigned for 16 years, sacrificed his own offspring, and nailed the temple door shut.  He was certainly not a stellar example of fear of the Lord. 

How do we act when we have challenges? 

Do we act fairly, remain steadfast in and obey the Lord, or do we try to move boundary stones by turning to something other than Him?

Pray for yourself and leaders to have the strength, courage, and wisdom to turn to the Lord for all challenges.

In Christ,

David P