1 Corinthians 10:14 "Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry."
We often look at tribal cultures with disdain in regards to their idol worship and foolish ways and think that we are above that nonsense in these modern times, but are we?
First let's look at what idolatry actually is.
anything that we put before God in our lives (family, work, sports, technology, hobbies, recreation, food, drugs, etc.)
anything that becomes more important to us than God
satan's attempt to undermine God's plan of salvation (anything keeping us from God's Word, God, people or the church)
God got my attention a few weeks ago regarding a silly little game on my phone. The game in itself isn't bad but God was telling me that there were more important things that I could be filling my time with, mainly Him. I would stay up later to beat the computer as it gave me a little rush to be winning but in all honesty, I could have used the time to pray or to get more rest. The game was very addicting and after a while I was becoming aware that I was spending more and more time staring at that little screen. It had become an idol to me as I was spending more time playing that game than I spent with God throughout the day. You may have something else that draws your attention away from God, television, golfing, social media, alcohol, etc. but whatever it is, beware. Our God is a jealous God and He does not like to share! God has provided a plan of salvation that puts Him directly front and center. He is the only one who is worthy of our worship and that is what He demands of each of us. Anything less is Idolatry because something else has become more important to us.
Why is it important that we put God first in our lives? Because God uses His children in the lives of others ... He may want to use us in the life of someone to make a difference and we would miss a tremendous blessing if our priorities wouldn't allow it. And because the Bible tells us that is what is expected of us. Exodus 20:3 "You shall have no other gods before me!"
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:14 to flee idolatry. It doesn't say to just say no, or study it, talk about it, vote on it, or walk away from it. It says that we are to run as far away from any kind of idolatry in any form or fashion. Idolatry is destructive and if left unchecked can destroy not only us but those around us.
So then, what is taking your time and attention away from God and your family? Would God say that it is your idol?
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Personalize this prayer.
Dear Lord,
I have let _________________ get in the way of my relationship with you and I didn't even realize what was happening. It crept into my daily routine and though it brought me pleasure, I can see now how it has not only taken my mind away from You but from my family also. Forgive me. Please take away my desire to pursue those vices and anything that is related to it in any manner. Break the chains that have bound me and free me to be more of who You desire me to be. If this has caused my relationships to suffer, would you please help me to repair them. Show me who I can trust to hold me accountable and give me the fortitude and determination to change my priorities. I want my life to be all about you, Jesus!
In Your Name,
Amen