The Idol Factory

What are your idols?

I probably write about this too much, yet it’s because we are surrounded by them every single day. Work, the gym, our cars, habits, hobbies, addictions, homes, clothes, appearance, our stuff, even our children.

Anything that quietly takes first place in our hearts becomes an idol.

What do you see yourself bowing down to with your money, energy, and time? It might even be social media. What are you obsessed with? What’s your top priority in life?

In Jeremiah’s day, idols were everywhere. I’ve said before, but it’s worth repeating, I can understand how people were drawn to them. They were impressive, built on huge structures, decorated with silver and gold, and surrounded by power and wealth. People wanted what the rich and powerful had. It’s no different than today.

Jeremiah said, “The customs of other people are worth nothing. Their idols are just wood cut from the forest, shaped by a worker with his chisel. They decorate their idols with silver and gold. With hammers and nails they fasten them down so they won’t fall over. Their idols are like scarecrows in melon fields; they cannot talk. Since they cannot walk, they must be carried. Do not be afraid of those idols, because they can’t hurt you, and they can’t help you either.” (Jeremiah 10:3–5 NCV)

If you boil it all down, we’re searching for the same things, peace, happiness, healing, purpose, and meaning.

But idols don’t deliver. I’ve tried. I like nice things, and I love comfort. But as the Lord is my witness, what I really love is His Word, His people, a hot cup of coffee, and my journal and prayer time.

It’s crazy, but these things - His things, have crept into every part of my life.

I love listening to worship music when I work out. I can’t start my day without opening the Bible, journaling, and praying.

I’m not claiming any high or mighty spirituality. I’m just claiming a change that only God could do. Christ has changed me. His Word changes me daily. Godly music and good friends grow me.

Solomon once said, “I realized that people work hard and try to succeed because they are jealous of each other. This, too, is useless, like chasing the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 4:4 NCV)

The truth is, idols promise happiness but leave us empty. Jesus said, “You cannot serve two masters; you will hate one and love the other.” (Matthew 6:24 NCV)

I’ve learned that when I let go of the things that control me and cling to Christ instead, I find peace.

I love creation. It’s free. Just step outside, breathe the air, listen to the trees, feel the wind, and watch what it does to your heart. I love the crackling of a fire, the sound of worship, and good conversation with people I love, and who love me.

If you find yourself chasing stuff, killing yourself for status or appearance, or hiding in addictions, come home to Christ.

He’s the only one who truly satisfies. Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NCV)

Christ paid the price for our striving and our sins. His death brought redemption, His resurrection defeated death, and His love fills what idols could never touch. Christ will free you.

GOD - JESUS - HOLY SPIRIT - replace our idols please. Convict me more and more to lean into you for life, peace, and love. Thank you for saving my soul, defeating death and giving us blessing now and for eternity. IJNIP amen ♥️