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Let’s face it; we love idols.
Consumerism is drilled into us at an early age. Most of what we use our money to buy has planned obsolescence meaning the product is limited and we will eventually shelve it in order to buy the latest and greatest model. It’s nearly impossible to avoid the new things continually coming down the conveyor belt touting the “you NEED this” slogan.
But idol worship doesn’t just involve material possessions. Even things considered “good” by many (love, power, success, popularity) can overwhelm us with their subtle influence. These days there are so many who consider the Bible to be old and outdated so they pursue so-called higher knowledge and enlightenment in order to feel significant and empowered.
I believe an idol is most easily identified by one simple detail – we go back to it. Just as quickly as the people of Israel were drawn away from their idols they would jump back into them. Many times, it started as an innocent curiosity. But over time, the idols would steal their hearts and they would forget about God. I’m being honest when I say there are some who I grieve over because their return to idolatry is right now ruining their life.
Such idols are like scarecrows in a field of melons; they cannot speak; they have to be carried because they cannot walk. Do not be afraid of them: they can cause you no harm, and they can do you no good.” 6 LORD, there is no one like you; you are mighty, and your name is great and powerful.
Jeremiah 10:5-6 GNB
Idols are powerless. They are time-wasters. They are life-stealers. They tell us they can meet our needs but waste no time putting shackles on our wrists. Without the conviction and freedom found in Jesus, we will live in this prison convincing ourselves it’s alright while we rot in our misery. Our greatest prayer is for divine intervention. There is Good News to be found! There is grace in Jesus Christ.
LORD, I know that none of us are in charge of our own destiny; none of us have control over our own life. 24 Correct your people, LORD, but do not be too hard on us or punish us when you are angry; that would be the end of us.
Jeremiah 10:23-24 GNB