Message from Bruce:
American Idols
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also," Jesus (Matt. 6:21)
What has your affection, dear friend? Our affections are so important that God made the 2nd Commandment central to our human existence. When the Lord said, "You shall not make for yourself an idol," Exodus 20:4...He was telling the human race that He wants our undivided attention. God's intent is that we love Him and Him alone.
Unfortunately, we have a tendency to say that we love God with our whole heart, soul and strength - but, our dedication and devotion prove otherwise. It is pretty easy for men and women to convince themselves that their motives and methods are pure. Thus, pointing out that idols do exist is easily said for most Christians in America. Yet, admitting that they, themselves, have their own idols is another thing, altogether!
In what areas might you and I struggle with the 2nd Commandment?
First, in the area of pleasure! We love and adore our comfort. We Americans are pretty comfortable. It seems we pursue pleasure above all things! For example, the local church in America would seemingly much rather be a social club than be centered on truth. The primary reason for this is our loss of purpose. When men and women live without godly purpose...they will choose pleasure every time. Pleasure becomes more important to us than God.
Second, in the area of profit! It is my estimation that the love of money has enchanted far more of our society than we believe. Our churches are not excluded. The Lord told us that we could not serve two masters - God and money (Matt. 6:24). Yet, that is what many American church-goers believe. We treasure freedom in America and freedom is such an important component of America's foundation. Yet, our society has taken that freedom to pursue what it wants, not what it should! Profit becomes more important to us than God.
Third, in the area of possessions! Homes, land, businesses, toys (boats, bikes, campers, cars/trucks, etc.), guns and so much more. Remember, idols have our attention and affection. It has become far too easy for a possession we own to own us in this comfortable and complacent age we live in. Possessions become more important to us than God.
Brother or Sister, please check your heart! Do not evaluate your life based on the standards of our culture. Our culture is lost. Perhaps many church-goers are lost. God's Word is the standard. Do not let pleasure, profit and/or possessions be your idol! If you have fallen into that trap - repent and turn to the Lord. He is not a reluctant forgiver and His blessings to the faithfully obedient are much more rewarding than any idol you might have!
Bruce
