by Sandra Hansen

Why do people like to make Idols?

Idols seem to spring up in our daily life so easily. A good work ethic leads to workaholism. We are enjoying the things that God has given us but soon are spending more time with the stuff, rather than the Giver. Something that was good and wholesome gets twisted and becomes more than it should be.

We chuckle at the thought of an idol of wood or stone. How could those people be so silly, worshipping what their hands have made?

But, isn’t that the definition of Consumerism?

It’s time to clean out our mental closet and see what may be taking up God’s rightful place in our lives. We might laugh at the idea of idols- but isn’t that what anything that takes God’s rightful place in our life called?

Idols sound like something from a primitive Stone Age tribe, not like anything you’d find in this modern day. But I find myself having to do an “Idol Check-up” every so often. My Idols aren’t made of wood and stone. They have names like ‘Being Right”, “Nice Stuff”, “Perfect Children”, “Political Correctness”, and “Comfort and Ease”. For me, it can be an easy slide into worshipping my Idols instead of God.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to make a comfortable home, have a great, challenging job, or raise Godly children. But when the focus becomes the house, the job, or the kids instead of God is when it becomes a sin.

Take a moment to examine your life. What are your idols? Where does your mind go during church? Are you checking out what everyone is wearing? Making lists and planning your weekly schedule? What distracts or prevents you from spending time with God? Praising God and doing His Will should be what consumes or lives and thoughts. Anything that begins to replace Him as the focus of our lives is getting in the way of your having an intimate relationship with God.

Sometimes I want to “Be Right” or “Be Comfortable” more than I want God. But this isn’t what God wants for us. He doesn’t call us to a life of ease but to a life of obedience. But some days, I’m too busy playing with my Idols to hear His call.

Your fellow traveler,
Sandy