They exchanged the truth of God for a lie,
and worshiped and served created things
rather than the Creator—
who is forever praised.
Romans 1:25
Two days ago, while thinking about homeschooling during my evening dish washing, I was reflecting on recent moments of being fearful of Colin dying, because I'd have to work and it would mean the end of homeschooling. Not only would the kids and I have to grieve the loss of our favorite man, we'd also have to adjust to being in school for the first time. (Clearly the former would be the most painful, but this is what has gone through my mind recently.)
Then, the verse above came to mind. In those moments of fear, I move from being grateful to God for giving us this precious year, to worshiping the gift - teaching my kids at home. How subtle the idolatry is, worshiping homeschooling instead of the God who's allowing me to homeschool during this season. Close call in my heart of hearts. Spirit, thank you for snapping me out of it! (I'm sure I'll need to be rescued from myself again sometime soon, so please stay close!) Our pastor once defined idolatry as taking a good thing and making it the ultimate thing. This definition is so perfect.
Are there wonderful gifts God has given you that you are making "ultimate things"? Do you find idolatry sneaking in when you're not expecting it? How does the Spirit whisper to you in temptation, fear, and doubt? How have you been encouraged by the presence of God lately, (perhaps even in your sin)?
We are fickle; God is faithful. We waffle; God is constant. We sin & repent; God forgives. His love endures forever.
Later in Romans, Paul says this:
So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:21-25Thank you, Lord, for sending our Rescuer!*
*If you're unfamiliar with God's rescue plan, please ask. I'd love to share it with you.
AMEN!! i think i will spend some time this afternoon reflecting on those questions about the gifts God has given me and making them the ultimate gift. there is only one ultimate gift worthy of adoration and praise, and how often do i forget that?? thanks for being my iron today!!
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