Before the Lord “abandoned” Judah, who was following the same path taken by the kingdom of Israel, the prophet Jeremiah announced that his people would be sent to Babylon, where they would undergo severe reeducation. Judah was deceived by riches, for its land was full of silver and gold, as well as Eastern customs. How could the descendants of David act in such a way?

       In addition to Eastern customs, the inhabitants of Judah imitated the Philistines, ancient enemies whom the devil used to disturb Israel’s peace, especially during the reign of Saul, the nation’s first king. The Philistines were idolaters and diviners, and they corrupted the sons of Jacob; therefore, they would be sent into exile—the school God had prepared for those who were undisciplined. Be watchful!

        Throughout the territory of Judah, stories circulated about people who had prospered and amassed great treasures. Horses and chariots were everywhere. It seems that the same demon at work then is still at work today, leading people to give their hearts to Mammon and stop seeking God in order to grow rich (Matthew 6:24). Where will they go after death? Only the Lord knows!

       In the ancient kingdom of David, idols were openly seen and worshiped. The people had lost their fear of God and bowed before images of demons, which could do nothing for anyone. As a result, the devil was worshiped in his most perverse forms. Meanwhile, the number of those who belonged to the Lord and sought to do His will diminished. Still, those who practiced the Word bore good testimony and served as examples to others; some of them were taken into captivity. Nebuchadnezzar knew how to select the finest among Jewish society to serve in his palace.

      When Jesus comes to take His Church, only those who have been born again and have set a good example will go up with Him. Those who practice iniquity will not go with Him (Matthew 7:22–23). But those who prioritize wealth over holiness and a life with God do not realize that they are losing what matters most and will despair at the Judgment.

How could an Israelite, who claimed to fear the Lord and possessed the Scriptures, bow before a useless idol and not feel deceived by the devil? Today, how can a Christian, known for loving God, revere the works of his own hands? Have they never known the Most High? Those who surrender themselves to idols will not go with Christ to Heaven. Those living in sin will cry out that they are being treated unjustly, but they will be ignored. Poor souls!

      Before the Babylonian exile, the Israelites would go out into the fields and cut down a tree. Half of it was used as firewood to make a fire and cook food. With the other half, they made an idol, bowed before it, and invoked it as their god. In doing so, they sealed their condemnation before the true God. The same has happened to many who have lost discernment, abandoning the Creator and Savior. Do not do this. Love the Lord!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares