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Writer's pictureBishop Keith Butler

Heed Spiritual Leadership

And the Lord God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place: But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord arose against his people, till there was no remedy. Therefore he brought upon them the king of the Chaldees, who slew their young men with the sword in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion upon young man or maiden, old man, or him that stooped for age: he gave them all into his hand. (2 Chronicles 36:15-17)


In the Old Testament, God sent prophets to tell His people to turn from their wicked ways. God always sends a messenger, but the messenger is not always received well. Even though God repeatedly attempted to reach out, warn, help, and give words of wisdom and insight, the Israelites continued to reject and mock them.


God’s love for His people is evident as He persistently sent prophets to guide and warn His people, hoping they would turn from their wicked ways, even though they rejected the prophets repeatedly. In the same way, God continually reaches out to us, even when we miss it. He always allows us to return to Him. However, because of their constant rejection of God’s warnings and instructions in the Old Testament, their rebellion and disregard for God’s Word led to some severe consequences. The phrase in 2 Chronicles 36:16,  “till there was no remedy” signifies a point of no return, where the people’s hearts were so hardened that they could no longer be healed or restored.


Persistent disobedience always leads to dangerous consequences. When the Israelites would not listen or follow, God used King Cyrus, an unbeliever, to accomplish His plan on the earth. God's will shall be accomplished regardless of what is happening in the world or with those He desires to use.


Practical Application


Appreciate and respect the spiritual leaders God has placed in your life. Spend time praying for them today and consider giving them a note or gift of encouragement. Their guidance is a gift from God that helps you stay in His will.


Jeremiah 23:4; Jeremiah 35:15




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