GideonSample

Turn the Tide

“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judg. 21:25, NASB).

Humanism is a man-centered religion running rampant in our world today. It is a theology that places more importance on an individual’s rational thought than on adherence to religious principle. Humanists embrace their own reasoning as the basis of their decision making. They may want God, but only on their terms and only if He doesn’t clash with their personal sense of rightness and happiness. They want the benefits of a relationship with none of the responsibilities.

Baalism was an ancient form of secular humanism, offering a god that catered to the needs of mankind. Baal and his female consort, Asherah, represented fertility and prosperity to the ancients and did not have a law book like Yahweh’s. Fertility and prosperity without rules? The Israelites were sold on it. So they sought to manipulate these idols for personal benefit. Yet as Israel suffered under continuous oppression, it was clear that Baal was ineffective. Year after year, their harvest was stolen and starvation soon set in. Baal was as impotent then as humanism is now.

We easily overlook the personal significance of Baalism. This kind of lifestyle can seem foreign to us. After all, we don’t use words like “idol” or “Asherah” in our everyday conversation. 

You’re probably thinking, “Priscilla, I’m not a humanist!” But consider this: Can you name a prior conviction you’ve abandoned or compromised, replacing it (even unknowingly) with a standard that’s more in line with the philosophies you hear on television or see in the world? Whenever we allow secular perspectives to set the guidelines for our daily consecrated life, we are living—in that one area, at least—a humanistic version of Christianity.

Only a return to Yahweh could change the tide of famine and humiliation for Israel. And only a recommitment to Yahweh and His standards can reverse the degrading epidemic of today. 

God is calling you and me to do our part in turning the tide.