Idols: What is occupying first place in your heart?

Every day, people come to church for many reasons. But in general, many only come after they have tried everything else and failed. They are in need of help, and Jesus promised to help them.

However, God revealed to Ezekiel (Ezekiel 14:2–3) that those who came to seek His help have set up idols in their hearts. An idol is anything or anyone that takes God’s place in our hearts. It can be an object, a person, or even a desire.

Modern idols often grow like “grass”—silently and unnoticed in our lives—until they take God’s place.

Here are some examples of idols in our lives:

1.      Family as an Idol

These can disguise themselves as virtues or noble goals, such as the desire to provide for the family or a sense of obligation. You should love your family, but you must not place anyone above Jesus. Follow the Word of God, not merely the opinions of your family. We are called to honor them, but not at the expense of what God wants.

2.      Money as an Idol

The love of money (mammon) is a common form of idolatry. Money as a tool is one thing; loving money is another. It can lead to greed and replace God as the priority in a person’s life. Some people sacrifice their health in the pursuit of money, yet never feel satisfied because they do not rely on God. Money itself is not evil, but the love of money is.

3.      Dreams as an Idol

A dream can become an idol—not something on a wall, but something fixed in your mind and heart. It becomes dangerous when you pursue it above everything else. Do not allow any dream to become an obsession.

Signs of Idolatry

Your reaction when you are questioned or challenged can reveal what holds your heart. If something easily “throws you off” or causes you to lose control when it is touched, it may have become your “god.”

Call to Reflection

What has been occupying first place in your heart? Before receiving the Holy Spirit, there must be a clean altar. Remove every idol and allow God to truly be first.

Therefore, do not put anything or anyone in God’s place in your heart. If something or someone occupies the first place, then Jesus cannot enter.