Weekend Spiritual Insight | There Is Only One True God!

"Anything in life can serve as an idol, or a counterfeit god."  - Timothy J. Keller, American Presbyterian pastor, preacher, theologian, and Christian apologist (1950-2023)

To help understand the concept of a counterfeit or "false god," a concise explanation of what this means is in order. The term is commonly connected with "idolatry," the worship of idols or images. 

However, it can also include any thing or concept that we worship more than God in our lives. In today's context, we think of "false gods" as objects into which we place our faith and devotion, but have nothing to do with Him.

These can encompass many things, including, but not limited to: material possessions, social position, power, fame, pleasure, even self-reliance. It also involves anything that diverts you away from your relationship with God.

With the advent of technology, specifically the internet and then social media, we've seen a rise in people seeking instant gratification, and the dissemination of political ideologies. Both of which can easily be added to the list above.

Many false gods are also mentioned in scripture, for example: Baal, the Canaanite storm god, and Chemosh, the chief god of Moab. Still, the Bible emphatically condemns the worship of any false gods and/or idols, while stressing the one true God.

We have the ability to break from the hold of false gods and idols. First, we must admit that it is unrestrained and then denounce it in its many forms. This is a product of Satan and not of God! True fulfillment will never be achieved by following this course of falsehoods.

"For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world." - 1 John 2:16 (NIV) 

Then, it is crucial that we turn our attention toward God and to others. When we completely focus our love on Him and other people, there will be no place in our hearts for anything else but the One True God!

Scripture: Exodus 20:3; Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 43:10; Matthew 24:24; 2 Peter 2:1

Prayer: "Dear God, provide me with discernment to recognize the truth and protect me from the deception of false gods. Lead me on the path of righteousness and help me stay strong in my faith. In your name I pray. Amen."

May God richly bless you,

~Eve