Idolization
What is idolization? The dictionary defines it as “to worship as a god” or “to regard with blind adoration”. The Bible states clearly that idolatry is wrong, but unfortunately the World does not seem to rid herself of her evil habits.
So, why is idolatry bad? In the book of Exodus the Lord gave his chosen people two stone tablets, each inscribed with what we know today as the “Ten Commandments”. The second commandment states:
“You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.” – Exodus 20:4-6
Wait. People don’t fall down and worship statues anymore, so how does this apply to the modern World?
Merriam-Webster defines the word “idol” as “a representation or symbol of an object of worship”. When God set forth that commandment He meant it to apply to everything (hence: anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below), not just metal figurines in the figure of false gods.
To commit idolatry you only have to replace the center of your life with something other than God. In fact, if you take a step back and look at America’s economy, an alarming percentage of it is fueled by idolatry:
- Teen Idols
- Models
- Singers/Bands
- Superheroes
- Movie Stars (TV Show Stars)
- Books, Magazines, Comics
- And the list goes on…
Scary thought, isn’t it?
Individually none of these are wrong. They are a great source of entertainment and amusement. However, when interest turns into obsession there is a problem. As Christian’s God should be the center of our lives. Not a Band or a TV Show. Becoming infatuated with the material items of this world serves only to distract us from what really matters.
Be strong. You have the Creator of the Universe as your ally!
