Not All Idols are Statues
As I write this I am between plane flights on my way to Ghana, West Africa. On previous trips we are always confronted with the issue of idolatry, a common practice of worshipping small statues for various purposes. I’ve always thought it a bit strange and subconsciously thought that it wasn’t a problem I had or would ever have... but now I wonder, do I have an idol problem? Do you?
When God lists his Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 he commands both against not having any other gods and also against making any image of creation worship. Again, these are two commandments I’ve never thought to be a personal struggle. But then I thought more about what idols are and what their purpose is for. Idols are man-created objects of worship designed for the avoidance of suffering or for the provision of pleasure.
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
—Galatians 5:19–21
Self-Achievement. Idols are often something we have made, earned, or obtained. It produces a sense of self-focus and self-worship in an act of comparison towards others. What in your life do you feel you have achieved? Do you honestly give credit to God for the accomplishments or possessions in your life?
And they made a calf in those days, and offered a sacrifice to the idol and were rejoicing in the works of their hands.
—Acts 7:41
Avoidance of Suffering. One of the purposes of idols is to keep difficulty far away. Whether is a spirit-focused approach or a worldly-centered technique, the purposes can be the same. Is there suffering you have sought to avoid? Has your primary avenue for relief been apart from Jesus? If so, you may have an idol problem.
Provision of Pleasure. Idols are designed with the goal of satisfaction. Idols never fulfill that goal. The pursuit of pleasure is never complete apart from Jesus. Do we find more enjoyment in the creation than the Creator? Are we more passionate about earthly pleasures than eternal joy? If so, you may have an idol problem.
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
—Colossians 3:5
Kinds of Idols Among Us. Health. Wealth. Food. Possessions. Hobbies. Vacations. Retirement. Family. Friends. Sports. Entertainment. Appearance. Insurance. Investments. Substances. Education. Work. Are one of these areas a problem for you? Another area that isn’t listed? Ask God to reveal to you any areas of your life that have become an idol.
Not everything listed here is necessarily an idol because you have it or practice it. The issue with idolatry is trust. Do we place more trust in these areas than we trust in God for fulfillment or identity? Do we seek relief from suffering or pursue pleasure primarily from a source that is not the One, True, Living God? If so, we may have an idol problem.
Little children, keep yourselves from idols.
—1 John 5:21