Joel M Bradshaw

21Little children, keep yourselves from idols.–1 John 5

This was the last surviving disciple of Jesus who wrote these words. He could call anyone he wanted to a “little child” in a spiritual sense! I encourage you today to be like a child and receive his warning.

What is an idol? An idol is something you replace God with in your heart. You serve it with devotion. It may be a thing (like your phone), or a person (a relationship) or a concept (like pleasure, security, or comfort).

Here are some questions to help you identify any idol in your heart. Remember, the answer to idolatry is repentance. Confess your idol devotion to God and repent of your ways. I too have to ask these questions.

1. WHAT IN YOUR LIFE ARE YOU WILLING TO SIN AGAINST GOD OR OTHERS TO PROTECT?
2. WHAT DO YOU JUSTIFY ITS PRESENCE THROUGH EXCUSES AND RATIONALIZATIONS?
3. WHAT CONSUMES YOUR THOUGHT LIFE?
4. WHAT IS THE FOCUS OF HOW YOU SPEND YOUR TIME AND MONEY?
5. WHEN IT IS BROUGHT UP, WHAT HAS YOU DEFENSIVE?–JMB