“Now King Ahaz…saw the altar which was at Damascus; and King Ahaz sent to Urijah the priest the pattern of the altar and its model, according to all its workmanship. So Urijah the priest built an altar; according to all that King Ahaz had sent from Damascus.” - 2 Kings 16:10 11

Ahaz was interested in religion. But instead of being content to worship God according to His Word, he became fascinated with an altar he had seen in Damascus. He had a sketch made with “detailed plans,” which he sent to Urijah the priest with instructions to build a replica. Then he rearranged the furnishings in the temple in Jerusalem and placed the “new altar” in a prominent place.

Ahaz then developed his own style of worship, issuing a new set of orders that detailed the way he wanted offerings to be conducted. How did the religious leaders respond? Urijah ignored God’sWord regarding worship and every part of religious life, and “did just as King Ahaz had ordered.”

It can be easy to criticize Ahaz, but the fact is that many people, including many Christians, are tempted to create their own altars and write their own rules. They interpret the Bible to fit their own interests and ignore anything that makes them uncomfortable. But the Bible makes it clear that we need to base our Christian lives on God and His Word. Instead of living for self, we are to take up our cross daily, die to self, and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).

Today, let the actions of Ahaz serve as a warning to you. Dedicate your life to God, and live according to His Word. Stay faithful to God’s timeless principles. Surrender your life anew to Him. Don’t give in to compromise.