Idols

A package arrived today.  I was expecting one. 

Unfortunately, the package turned out to contain books of theology I had ordered, and not the clothing I was expecting.  My heart fell.   Just my books on missions and global evangelization?  Pooey. 

Oops, my idols are showing again. 

Every disappointment, irritation, angry moment ought to give us pause.  Why am I upset about this?  Why disappointed?  What am I worshiping that is causing this reaction?

Dee Brestin in her book Idol Lies, in referring to Tim Keller’s book Counterfeit Gods, reminds us that there are three basic deep idol categories into which all our adoration fits:  Affirmation/Approval, Comfort/Security, and Control/Power.   Since I love my clothing better than my theology studies, I’m adoring comfort and security.  I feel confident that all will be well if I am dressed well and comfortably.  All will be well if I am personally happy, and new clothes make me happy. 

Does this mean I should do away with my clothing?  Heaven forbid. 

No, it means that I am worshiping the creature rather than the Creator, I am running after the things God gives rather than God.  

And that will only end badly. 

Because God will not be mocked in my life, and I will ultimately not be satisfied with my clothing and stuff.  Remember, trends change, moths eat clothes as do electric dryers and puppies, and things wear out . . . literally. 

My idols cannot and will not take care of me.  They will not rescue me.  They will not feed and sustain me.  They will not answer my prayers. 

And, when push comes to shove and a parent is ailing or a child is struggling, nice things don’t really matter.  You’d sell your arm, never mind your stuff, to have your mother back. 

Give way to God, and forsake your idols.  Their moment is fleeting, but your relationship with the Lord lasts forever.  Our attention belongs there. 

Whom have I in heaven but you, and there is nothing on earth I desire besides you.  My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.  Psalm 73:25