Worshiping False Idols

The story found of Exodus 32 in the Bible describes when Moses went up mount Sinai to receive the ten commandments from God, he was away for 40 days and night. The Israelites asked Aaron to make them a new god while Moses was away. He took their golden earrings and other jewelry and made a golden calf from them. The golden calf was an idol that the people worshiped instead of the real God.
Moses then ordered the Levites to kill those who had participated in the worship of the golden calf, resulting in the death of 3,000 men. God then brought a plague upon the Israelites, further punishing them for their sin of idolatry.
This is not the only story that heeds us warning of worshiping false idols. After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they often strayed from worshipping the true God and began worshipping the gods of the Canaanites, leading to their downfall and eventual exile. The book of 1st & 2nd Kings talks about this, time and time again, providing us with prime examples of what not to do. How does all this scripture correlate to today? Do people still worship false idols and golden calves?
We may not have massive golden statues we bow down to daily ( though some do), however we do have idols.
In the Bible, an idol is defined as anything that takes the place of God as the most important focus and priority in one’s life. Whether it’s a physical object, a person, or an idea, it all represents a misdirection of worship. A reliance on something other than the true God for blessing, help, or guidance. Anything and everything that takes focus away from God can become an idol. A new job, a favorite hobby,  games, television, books, social media, sports, etc.. The list can go on and on, to no end.

The Bible strongly condemns idolatry, as it is seen as a violation of the first commandment “You shall have no other gods before me.”. How important it must have been to declare it as the very first commandment.
While the concept of idolatry may seem outdated, it remains relevant in modern society, where people can easily become attached to things or ideas that overshadow their relationship with God.
The Bible emphasizes that God is the only one worthy of our worship and reverence. It warns with great detail, the consequences for those who do not follow His orders. Do you have an idol in your life today? Could you possibly do something different to refocus your attention on God. I challenge you today to redirect your thoughts and actions back to Father. Get rid of the idols in your life and give your life back to God where it belongs.
I am reminded of Matthew 7:21-23;

21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

22 Many will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

How awful would it be to hear God say this? Where are you with your walk with our heavenly Father?  Would He know you by name or would you plead for His remembrance? The choice is yours, it’s always been your choice. Who do you choose?

As always thanks for reading and God Bless.