Yes, it’s the name of a false god. “Baal” I mean.
An idol, no doubt with a demon behind it, empowering it in some amazing (but wicked) ways!
Israel, in direct disobedience to God, to His Commandments, worshipped Baal, according to Judges 2:13.
They built sanctuaries for him, 1 Kings 16:32.
They allowed hundreds of their young men to become “prophets” of Baal, too! See 1 Kings 18:19.
Baal and his cohorts!
By the way, an idol can be defined as “the terminal focus of one’s affections.” What (or whom) do you love most of all? Consumes most of your time, for example.
And God, being just and holy, disciplined Israel severely for her attachment to Baal.
But get this please.
We “moderns” have our own “Baals” to serve!
Money!
Self, ourselves!
Pleasure!
Sex!
Fame!
The list goes on ad infinitum.
Oh, I have forgotten to define that Name “Baal!”
It means “owner!”
The idol (demon) some poor human “serves” to supposedly get his or her needs met … that “thing” ends up “owning, controlling, bossing” that devotee for the rest of his or her life!
Baal will never be happy until he is Boss!
Now, let me talk about the real Lord!
Jesus, Whom I serve as do most of you readers.
He does not “use” me … rather He provides for me, protects me, meets my every need!
Someone that good to me … can certainly be my Lord the rest of my life!
Hallelujah!
The devil takes!
The Lord Jesus gives!
My, what a choice!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell
Joshua, many years ago, made this wise decision. “Choose you this day whom ye will serve … but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15
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