“And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that his father Amaziah had done.  Nevertheless, the high places were not taken away. The people still sacrificed and made offerings on the high places.” – II Kings 15:3-4

Such is the summary of King Azariah’s reign.  It is similar to the verdict on many of Judah’s kings.  In general, he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord.  But there was one exception – he did not remove the high places.  This was not a one time sin, but a continuous sin that marked his reign. It had been going on for so long, maybe Azariah hadn’t even thought of it.

When I see Christ, I long to hear, “Well done good and faithful servant.  You did what was right in my sight.”  But I wonder if he will continue, “Nevertheless, you….”  Is there a habitual sin that I commit?  Maybe that I have never even thought of?  Will there be an exception to his general verdict?  What is my exception?  How do I need to change?

Search me, O God, and see if there is any wicked way in me!  Let me see it, that I might repent, and find mercy.  Give me your grace to change!

And what about you – what is your exception?