Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Hosea 4:1-5:15, 2 John 1:1-13, Psalm 125:1-5, Proverbs 29:9-11

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Tear Down the Idols

“The more priests there are, the more they sin against Me. They have exchanged the glory of God for the shame of idols.” – Hosea 4:7

It’s a tragic exchange—glory for shame. In Hosea’s time, even the priests, those appointed to stand between God and man, fell into corruption. The more their number grew, the more they encouraged one another in sin, and worse, they made it look normal.

This is peer pressure in its most dangerous form: spiritual compromise disguised as unity.

Instead of being a holy influence, these leaders became a cautionary tale. They chose popularity over purity, affirmation over truth, and idols over intimacy with God. We face the same temptation today. The pressure to blend in, keep quiet, tolerate evil, and even endorse it is real—and it’s rising.

But God gives us clear boundaries. 2 John 1:10 says:

“If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don’t invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement. Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work.”

That’s strong language—but necessary. We’re not called to be rude or harsh, but we are called to be holy. Encouraging or endorsing those who distort God’s truth—even passively—can make us partners in deception. And God sees it.

Who we surround ourselves with matters. Who we listen to, who we follow online, who we allow to speak into our lives—all of it affects the condition of our hearts and the direction of our walk.

So, take a moment. Are there voices in your life leading you toward idols or toward God’s glory? Are you encouraging compromise, or standing firm in truth?

There’s no neutral ground when it comes to spiritual influence. Choose the narrow road. Choose holiness. Choose glory—not shame. 💎

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Action (5 Minutes with God)

Take 5 minutes with the the One True God today. Ask Him:

• “What do You want me to knwo about this, Lord?”
  • Journal what He whispers through the Holy Spirit.
• Then ask, “What do you want me to do?”
  • Journal what He whispers – then do it!

Let today be a day of returning to the Lord and realigning with Him.

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Prayer

Lord, help me walk in truth, not follow the crowd. Guard my heart from partnering with darkness, even subtly. I want to honor You above all. Give me wisdom in my relationships and boldness to stand for righteousness. In Jesus’ name, amen.

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.