A Lack of Restraint

II Chronicles 28:19 - "For the Lord humbled Judah because of Ahaz king of Israel, for he had brought about a lack of restraint in Judah and was very unfaithful to the Lord."

A "lack of restraint" is the same thing as empowering those around us to sin. We can either humble ourselves through the fear of the Lord, or God will allow our enemies to rise up all around us and defeat us at every turn. In so doing, we license those who look up to us to become accessories to the crime of rebellion against the Lord. They likewise will be dragged down by our infidelity.

What is our heritage as leaders in our church, youth groups, bible studies, families, work, etc? What are we modeling for others to follow? If we are not restrained by the love of God, we will be unrestrained to lie, cheat, gossip, engage in promiscuity, or any other sin of the flesh. While some may not see our outward behavior, a spiritual dynamic works unseen to the physical eye, empowering these strongholds in our lives and those of others.

May our lives reflect the fear of the Lord, for this will build a mighty fortress for both ourselves and those with whom we lead.