Idols? Not Me!
Preaching Alert!
And I’m preaching mainly to myself!
I’ve always wondered about the rebellion of Israel as they repeatedly turned to idols instead of worshipping the true God. Frankly, I’ve always been very critical of their actions and attitudes.
THEN!
I read an article about idols. It spoke of idols as anything we are obsessed by, that we covet, focus most of our attention on, our self-absorption, our pride, greed, things, and technology. Any of these sound familiar or troubling?
Several months ago, I found I was weighing myself every day. Sometimes, multiple times a day. I allowed my minuscule ups and downs to determine my attitude and mood for the day. Needless to say, I was often grumpy. After talking to God about it, I felt I was to weigh in no more than once a week, so Monday mornings became my time to register. My mood and my weight are now doing fine, thank you very much.
Another form of idolatry (for me at least) actually started out with good intentions. As I continue to exercise and walk to get strong, I am doing the right things with the wrong mindset. Checking the steps on the Fitbit watch, fussing at myself if I haven’t reached today’s goals, or gloating because I have surpassed my mileage for the day became too great a focus for my life. Again, that activity was affecting my ‘happiness’. I was allowing the watch to be the cornerstone of my heart’s desire and concentration.
I guess I’ll have to call this blog my confessional. Argh!
Another idol I have to fight off is technology. I don’t spend time on you tube videos (unless it is some sermons), but whoa baby! I spend way too much time on crossword puzzles! So is that activity an idol? Does it meet the criteria to be an idol, or is it just a form of relaxation? I’m limiting the time I spend each day just until I get a definitive ‘inner voice’ on that one.
Another technology downfall is my blogs. I have had to change my mindset to a place that is probably not acceptable to the writing coaches and gurus I follow. Perhaps I would be more successful if I did follow their advice, but I just don’t have the drive to market my blog site or books. I can’t check all the time to see if anyone has actually read my stuff. I appreciate those who read my blogs, especially those who respond. I am thankful when someone signs up for the blogs to go directly to their email.
I haven’t carved idols, but the greed for affirmation and the resulting discouragement when no one reads my stuff was affecting my relationship with God – therefore, for me that is idolatry. I hope my blogs touch someone’s life, but I also need to write for me – to express my thoughts and solidify my beliefs. May my blogs be offerings to God and never idols to honor me. May I be reminded to ‘seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.’ (Matthew 6:33) Joshua 24:14 is an encouragement to ‘fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and in faithfulness.’
May it be so.
Blessings
Kara Beth
