“Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.”
The
first commandment says “…have no other gods before
Me.” That
means that nothing should impact my life more than Christ. Nothing should have
more influence on my temperament or my opinion - than my relationship with God.
If
something does – I have an idol – and Idols distract me from God’s love.
Like
many of you - I have been upset lately. There has been a sadness that is understandable
with all the sickness, violence, and anger around us - but there was something else…an
anxiety that was oppressive…a feeling of hopelessness.
In
that situation I should turn to God… but I did not. I turned from God to an Idol…or maybe I
should call it an I-dol. My phone.
When
I was anxious I searched social media. When worried I checked the news
sites. I was constantly reading opinions
and viewpoints as though they had power. I was scrolling through a worthless
idol unsuccessfully searching for tranquility.
So,
I stopped.
I
spent a day away from social media and news.
When I felt anxious - I searched God’s Word - not Facebook. When I was sad
I went to my knees - not twitter.
The
change was immediate. The oppressiveness lifted, and the power of prayer became
my weapon. It transformed me…I regained my footing and I was able to respond in
positive ways instead of being paralyzed by dread.
You
should do the same – stay informed …fight illness and evil – love your neighbor
- Think for yourself - research - have compassionate
conversations… but when you get fatigued and afraid do not run to an Idol for
validation… run to Christ.
Do
not cling to anything for stability but your Heavenly Father – If there is an
issue too big for God - then allow fear to rule your day…but if not move
forward in faith - not hopelessness.
This
is not a political post - nor the place for political responses. This is about
idols - and what you run to in times of trouble. If you are adrift in a sea of
anxiety and defeatism during these storms - you may have chosen the wrong
anchor.
“For
I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do
not fear; I will help you.” – God
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