Bible in a Year:
They have followed other gods to serve them.
Sam checks his retirement account twice each day. He saved for thirty years, and with the boost of a rising stock market, finally has enough to retire. As long as stocks dont plunge. This fear keeps Sam worrying about his balance.
Jeremiah warned about this: You, Judah, have as many gods as you have towns; and the altars you have set up to burn incense to that shameful god Baal are as many as the streets of Jerusalem (11:13).
Judahs idolatry is remarkable. They knew the Lord was God. How could they worship anyone else? They were hedging their bets. They needed the Lord for the afterlife, because only the true God could raise them from the dead. But what about now? Pagan gods promised health, wealth, and fertility, so why not pray to them too, just in case?
Can you see how Judahs idolatry is also our temptation? Its good to have talent, education, and money. But if were not careful, we might shift our confidence to them. We know well need God when we die, and well ask Him to bless us now. But well also lean on these lesser gods, just in case.
Where is your trust? Back-up idols are still idols. Thank God for His many gifts, and tell Him youre not relying on any of them. Your faith is riding entirely on Him.
What good thing are you tempted to turn into an idol? How might you use this gift while still depending fully on God?
Father, all my hope is in You. Help me trust in You alone, not in my abilities and assets.
Good evening, Mayor...and thank you for today’s sustenance for body and soul.
Hope you had a productive Monday.