II Kings 17-19

“They followed worthless idols and themselves became worthless” (17:15). The author of Kings explained why northern Israel was conquered by the Assyrians and sent into exile. They rejected God and turned to idols, ignoring the warnings of God’s prophets (17:7-13). Following idols had terrible consequences: “they sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire. They practiced divination and sought omens and sold themselves to do evil ...” (17:17). Meanwhile, in Judah, when threatened by the Assyrians, King Hezekiah “trusted in the Lord” (18:5, ch 19).

“On what are you basing this confidence of yours?” (18:19). If our deep confidence is in the Lord, we won’t lean on the world’s idols for our security. He is all we need.