Deborah Toyin Daniel
HIDDEN IDOLS
Reflection: Exodus 20:3-6, Exodus 20:23, 1 John 2:15-16
When I was still running after the things of the world many years ago, the idol I unknowingly worshipped was solid gold. I mean, I had so much solid gold jewellery, that I wouldn't even remember some pieces until I needed them. I had my man-made god securely kept in the safe deposit box in a bank. You would never find me at church services, shopping, or running simple errands without it. I invested in gold jewellery: Bought it, sold it, wore it, and loved it to bits. Unknowingly, it was the man-made god that I had in my possession and worshipped, until it ruined, and left me without a penny in my pocket (for real). The strange thing also, was that the whole venture was really stressful; I had no peace. This should have been a pointer, but I lacked spiritual discernment at the time. I had to rededicate my life to the Lord when He revealed deep things to me about the items, the business, and the ungodly activities some of those I was trading with were involved in. I then renewed my covenant with Him, ensured I no longer had any of the items in my possession, and stopped making attempts to recover money I was owed. In fact, I was fortunate that money was all I lost - the kingdom of darkness had other plans, but for the mercy of God and His awesome power.
This testimony is not to specifically say that you are committing a sin if you invest in, or wear gold, diamonds, or other precious metals. Speak to the Lord about your situation. In my own case, I idolized these possessions - that was the sin. The little fox! Also, in my wild desire for worldly possessions, the devil seized the opportunity to carry out his assignment and sent his agents my way. If you are a believer abiding in Christ, the Holy Spirit will convict you of excesses accordingly. Hopefully, you will heed His rebuke.
Many unconsciously worship idols just like I did. You need to do some soul-searching when you find yourself drawn to a particular thing or person more than the Lord. Seek the Lord for revelation. Solid gold was the idol I unconsciously worshipped; yours could be money, other assets, your career, your physical attributes, a portrait, your spouse, children - anyone, or anything for that matter. Ensure that you do not worship anything or anyone other than the only True God. You do not have to physically bow to objects or persons for them to become idols that you worship. Anyone or anything that takes the place of God in your life, or is depended on more than Him is an idol. May we be guided!
Shalom, good people!
Yours Firmly in His Grip,
Deborah (Toyin) Daniel