In His Face

At that time, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh, the detestable idol of Moab, and for Milcom, the detestable idol of the Ammonites on the hill across from Jerusalem. - 1 Kings 11:7

The Bible records for us the fall of Solomon, which came about through the pagan influence of his many idolatrous wives. Though Solomon had been blessed with supernatural wisdom from God, this extraordinary wisdom did not keep him from falling headlong into wickedness.

The proof of the depth of his depravity is clearly seen in the placement of the "high places" for idol worship. He basically placed them on equal footing with God's Temple as a direct challenge to God's authority and presence in Jerusalem. There was no attempt by the king to hide his sin. It was "in God's face."

In truth, it is not possible for any of us to hide our disobedience. All sin is literally "in God's face." Every time we rebel against God it is as if we build a "high place" before Him.

Why then are we surprised when He tears it down?

Whatever a man seeks, honors, or exalts more than God, this is the god of his idolatry. - William B. Ullathorne