High Places: Positions of Power and Influence in Biblical Context

In biblical times, high places were elevated locations that served multiple purposes: strategic military vantage points, sites of pagan worship, and places of significant encounters with God. These physical locations symbolized positions of authority, spiritual significance, and the ongoing struggle between true worship and idolatrous practices.

Historical Significance of High Places

Throughout history, elevated locations have held strategic importance during warfare, serving as vantage points for military advantage. These prominent places also became sites of worship, where the heathen conducted idolatrous rites and erected pagan temples or objects (Deut 12:2-4). The Israelites were commanded to destroy these detestable objects of false religion, yet they failed to obey this directive and ultimately became involved in such practices themselves (Num 33:52; 1 Kgs 14:22-24; 2 Kgs 17:9-10).

Biblical Examples and Warnings

Some godly kings destroyed these objects of false religion, but when another king took the throne, the nation would often revert to the evil practices (2 Kgs 18:4, 21:3). This pattern serves as a warning: the sin we allow to reside in our lives will ensnare us. We must deal decisively and drastically with sin, as what initially seems non-threatening becomes a dominant controlling force, compelling us to act wrongfully.

Noah and Abraham worshiped God on high places (Gen 8:4,20, 22:2,14), and there have been significant encounters between God and man on mountain tops (Ex 19:20; Mt 17:1-9, 28:16-20). However, our worship of God is not dependent on location but the attitude of heart (Ps 86:12, 103:1; Jn 4:23-24). The critical aspect is the surrender of our heart to Him, not the place of encounter. The longest teaching of Jesus was the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:1-7:27).

Does God have the "high place' in my heart?

Spiritual Warfare

We struggle against opposing spiritual forces of evil in high or heavenly places (Eph 6:12). Thank God He is far above all authority and powers (Eph 1:20-21, 4:10).

Because we face spiritual enemies in these high places, we must put on the full armour of God to stand firm against the devil's schemes (Eph 6:11). This divine armour includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace as footwear, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:14-17). Only through this spiritual provision can we resist defeat and emerge victorious in our battle against the forces of evil.

Reflection and Application:

Examine your life for any "high places" where sin or false worship may have taken root.
Consider whether Jesus truly holds the position of highest authority in your life.
Reflect on the importance of heart attitude over external religious practices.
Trust in God's supreme authority over all spiritual forces of evil.