And I'm not talking reality talent-shows on North American TV.
I remember once a priest told me that the reason the 1st commandment was about not having idols "before" God, was because that was the most basic of all sins.
Lately, I think the Holy Spirit is teaching me more about the idols in my life: my comfort, my weight/vanity, my pride.
If whatever gets in the way of our communion with God is in some way an idol, what are the idols that you are contending with in your life right now?
2007-10-19 07:18:58 · 15 answers · asked by Acorn 7 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Eleventy: I've seen lots and lots of your questions, and I don't think our opinions about "God" or "higher purpose" is very different at all. The terminology we use is the biggest difference.
2007-10-19 07:27:31 · update #1
Jon, I appreciate this question. It's a relief to see a question that is not asked with dagger in hand but instead asked as an inward reflection of your faith.
To answer you question (as I think a few others have done well), my emotion is the source of the idol I am faced with most recently. I have allowed fear, envy and pride to prevent communion with God. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit, revealing the presence of these idols and presenting the opportunity to seek God foremost - to destroy these worthless idols.
Again, I appreciate the question. May God continue to bless you!
2007-10-19 09:38:00 · answer #1 · answered by In God I Trust (a.k.a. infohog) 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
“And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, in order that we might know Him who is true, and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. Little children, guard yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:20-21).
Is there anything wrong with “American Idol” or “Philippine Idol,” or being a fan of boxing champ Manny Pacquiao? Idols are not necessarily sinful things, but good and basic things elevated into being ultimate things. As D. M. Lloyd Jones puts it: “It is anything in our lives that occupies the place that should be occupied by God alone.” Rev. Adrian Rogers submits: “An idol is anything you love more, fear more, value more, or serve more than you do Almighty God.” In Martin Luther's view, “Idolatry is not only the adoration of images ...but also trust in one's own righteousness, works and merits, and putting confidence in riches and power.” God will not tell us to be careful about idols if He did not see the dangers:
1. Idolatry dishonors God
2. Idolatry darkens the mind
3.Idolatry is deadly because its the root of other sins
Basically now profit in business more for my personal satisfaction rather than for God's greater glory. But I'm striving hard that my financial gain be used in the economy of God. Help those who are in need.
2007-10-19 07:37:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The word idol is thrown around loosely today. That may because the biblical idols were false gods that were elevated to The Father God's position. In other words they were consulted in everyday life much less the important decisions. I don't see that happening with the "idols" of the entertainment,sports or other human endeavors and I'm going to put a controversial exception in here.That is except in dictatorships and some forms of religion.
T4
2007-10-19 11:07:51 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
No American Idol Contestants?
Uh... Billy Idol
2007-10-19 07:30:02 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
I'd have to say it is to want a lifestyle that just now I can not make happen.
I try to balance this out by repeatedly tell myself everything is as it should be; to try and not control the outcome rather to step aside and get out of Gods way.
Not controlling is an issue for me so I am working hard at letting it be!
2007-10-19 13:49:04 · answer #5 · answered by theladygeorge 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It would probably be problems. Sometimes I seem to get wrapped up in the problem instead of letting God help lead me to the solution. This could very well fall under pride I suppose. I think everyone fails in this way. Your question really made me think.
2007-10-19 07:39:53 · answer #6 · answered by keoh6 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You know before I answer your question I want to say I agree with you addition.....it is like going to Disney World that is the destination....we all take different roads....cool...for the questions...my idols I am sorry to say are clothes, sometimes food, and my self to the point I HATE to have to depend on anyone for anything because I always think they will fall short. I have to remind myself they aren't me......
2007-10-19 09:43:04 · answer #7 · answered by Sage 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Basically, I would have to say it was my "flesh", to put it in spiritual terms. I like things that taste & feel good, and I've been indulging in all of them quite a bit lately.
After than, I'd have to say "self"--not that I am always thinking of how great I am or how I can screw someone else over to get my way, but just that I am ALWAYS thinking about myself, even if it's to mentally berate myself. I'd love to be able to get away from "me" sometimes.
2007-10-19 07:32:29 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Siddartha Guatama, The Goddess, Lilith, Hecate..etc..the list could go on for days. I think what makes an awesome idol is someone with whom you can identify with and someone who has come from the same circumstances, but made a great difference.
2007-10-19 07:28:46 · answer #9 · answered by Starry Pluto ॐ 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Work was one for a long time, but that is no longer the case. I'd say the Internet is one right now for me.
2007-10-19 23:06:40 · answer #10 · answered by Michael B - Prop. 8 Repealed! 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋