Idols

 

Daily Text

Watchword

September 12, 2013

Jeremiah 44

The LORD is addressing idolatry in the hearts of His people – how interesting and compelling that God chose to use His covenant name to call His people to attention of their idolatry.  He would promise punishment for the forsaking of the covenant -- for their idolatry, and it is described in great detail in this chapter.  John Calvin said that the “human heart is an idol factory.” Every day we go about constructing gods of our own desire and our own design.  We replace the King of Heaven  -- the One who redeemed us with things we perceive can satisfy our petty desires or our selfish whims.

 This may be a silly illustration, but for years it seems that my family has stolen the hearts of our neighbors’ dogs – treats and attention will get you anything with a dog.  The dog pictured below idolized my dad until his death – the owners were graciously tolerant – some dogs divide their loyalties well. Jaguar did.  Our God tolerates no rivals – no divided loyalties – it will result in spiritual instability. Look at Israel’s history. Look at a person who tries to walk with God and entertain his or her pet idol – fear  and frustration –yes instability.  So – who or what is your God?

Blessed Praying

Watchword

 Daily Text 

September 10, 2013

Philemon 1-11

Paul is writing Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, but before he makes his appeal, Paul reminds Philemon that he prays for him.  Think of it … Paul in prison,  obviously suffering and here he has reached out to Onesimus, the runway slave and pointed him to Christ.  He would subsequently assist in reuniting him with his master.  As he approaches Philemon with the subject, he reminds him that he prays for him, but with thanksgiving for his strong testimony.  How many of our prayers for individuals are consumed with mere supplication when there is so much in their lives that has blessed us and others?  Lord, help me to enrich my prayers with thanksgiving that I may bless You in my praying.

Thoughts on Psalm 105

 

 

I spent the past week pouring over Psalm 105 – this week I’ll attempt to get back on track with my reading and blogging. I was really taken and overjoyed by God’s work in the life of Israel.  Beginning with Abraham and going through the life of Joseph and ultimately through the Exodus, the Psalmist shows the strong hand of God on behalf of His people – Israel.  The praiseworthy deeds of their God in the wilderness -- manna and quail from Heaven – water from the rock – the ultimate in provision [to an ever complaining people].  They had come out of Egypt with singing – glad to be free from their captors. God would eventually bring them to that land of promise for one reason – “that they might keep his statutes and observe his laws. Praise the LORD!” (Psalm105:45 ESV).   Come to think of it there is something in here that is analogous to our salvation.   We have been freed from the captivity of sin by the blood of Jesus that we might live lives that glorify Him.  Israel soon forgot her redemption, and it was costly. Lest we forget …