When we read warnings in the Bible against worshiping idols, we often envision the Israelites worshiping a golden calf and think we’d never fall prey to such a sin.
But the truth is, many of us have idols in our lives – our own modern day “golden calf” – that we bow down to every day without even realizing it.
So what idols could you be worshiping?
The Idol Of Comfort
It’s natural to want to feel comfortable and avoid suffering or anything that causes us discomfort.
So we build up our safety nests in the suburbs – arm our homes with alarm systems, put fences around our property, and enjoy modern-day amenities – away from the rest of the world.
No – there’s nothing wrong with wanting to protect your family or live in the suburbs – but we must be careful we don’t make comfort an idol.
Jesus was in the streets, with the people. He did life with them and entered into their pain.
He dined with tax collectors and sinners. And I bet He often felt physically “uncomfortable.”
But when is the last time we ventured out of our “comfort bubble” and did something bold for the glory of God?
Are you willing to be a bit uncomfortable to reach remote tribes who don’t know Jesus in Brazil and go on a mission trip?
Or even venture into an inner city and play games with street kids and have a chance to share the Gospel with them?
Christianity should never be comfortable – we should value the hearts and souls of the lost over our comfy bed in the suburbs.
So pray about ways you can step outside your comfort zone – whether it’s fostering a child without parents, serving overseas on a mission trip, or getting involved in a challenging ministry.
The Idol Of Family
Of course we love our spouse and our children – and this is a GOOD and righteous thing.
But do we love them more than God?
God is clear – He is to be number one in our lives. Even above our husbands or wives. Even above our children.
Yet so many of us idolize our spouses – seeking our worth through them and looking to them for value.
We can also become so consumed with being our child’s “friend” that we lose sight of the importance of godly discipline and pointing them to the cross.
The only way we can truly love our families as Christ intended is if we make Christ first in our lives.
The Idol Of Self
Pride.
A sin as old as time.
Most of us have struggled with pride to some degree throughout the course of our lives – and it is a deadly sin that must be slayed at the altar.
The minute we think that we know “best” or are somehow wiser than God on how our lives should go – is the moment we need to fall on our knees in godly repentance.
God is holy and sovereign – yet, in our human minds, we think we know better.
So we ignore His commands and decide to do things “our way” …
… which typically brings us even more pain and suffering.
We must be careful to never elevate ourselves above God – or be enchanted with our own intelligence.
Every perfect gift comes from above, and all the abilities and talents we have are a gift from our Creator.
Modern Day Idols
There are many good things in life – but if we aren’t careful, they can become our idols.
Whether it’s bowing down to the idol of our successful career, seeking comfort or fulfillment in material possessions, or even elevating another human in our life (mother, father, wife, husband, boss, child, friend, etc.) above God – we must continue to ask God to search our hearts – and make sure we aren’t worshiping idols without even realizing it.
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