II Chronicles 28

“For he sacrificed to the gods of Damascus that had defeated him … But they were the ruin of him and of all Israel” (28:23).  King Ahaz of Judah led his country into disaster by worshipping idols, practicing child sacrifice, stealing from the Temple and closing its doors (v3,19,24).  When God allowed the nation to be defeated by the Assyrians and northern Israel, Ahaz looked everywhere for support.  Instead of repenting and turning to the One God, he chose to imitate his enemies – sacrificing to their false gods.

“But it did not help him” (28:21).  The world’s methods and resources – violence, money, manipulation, idolatry – will not bring about God’s kingdom.  He alone is our shield, refuge, and salvation.