“And they abandoned all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made for themselves metal images of two calves; and they made an Asherah and worshiped all the host of heaven and served Baal.” – 2 Kings 17:16 (Context: 2 Kings 17)

It used to be a pretty effective tactic to make yourself a sign, stand in the middle of the busiest section of town, and shout to everyone God is angry about their behavior and is readying his wrath. However, somewhere over the last several hundred years or so, people stopped paying attention and decided to ignore the warnings. This chapter in 2 Kings makes me wonder two things: 1) is America just repeating history and 2) what does God have in store for a country that has so many similarities to the people in these chapters?

When you read 2 Kings in its entirety, which is more or less an abbreviated history lesson of all the kings of Judah and Israel, you quickly see a pattern the author adheres to. Simply stated, the kings either did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, or they did not. We can’t know for sure which American leaders have been doing right in the eyes of the Lord but we can surely tell which ones are not. Recent changes in the government and probable changes in the upcoming presidential election could put this country on a full tilt away from God and his will if it hasn’t already begun.

The author of 2 Kings speaks of the Israelites as if all have abandoned their God, but we know it was only the majority, not the entire population. Those who pursued the customs and culture of nations out of God’s will (socialism, secular humanism), built shrines to their newfound admirations (skyscrapers, museums) were stubborn and selfish regarding warnings from God-fearing prophets (post-modernity, existentialism), sacrificed their children for the sake of their idols (abortion, vanity), and downright just chose evil over good.

Yes, I understand there is nothing wrong with skyscrapers and museums. I was referring to the temple-esque form they take to admonish their content or purpose that could be considered idolatry. And yes, I understand we live under a new covenant by the grace and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. However, as you continue to read 2 Kings and see how far off the Israelites worship strayed, you watch them being conquered and ruled by the nations they sought to emulate. I’m not ready to live in a country that allows itself to be overtaken because it’s people refuse to heed the warnings and worship the one and only true God the way he desires to be worshipped.