August 29, 2018 - - I John 5:21 - - Get rid of idols.

Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.
I John 5:21 NIV

These words are the succinct ending of the first letter of John. Children's passions are easily anchored on their latest toy or game or stuffed animal. Take it from the child and he pouts and rages. Until something else grabs his attention.

We are to keep ourselves from idols. It is so easy to fall under the influence of things in this world. Things that are passing away. We can go astray in so many ways, we are die a death of a thousand little cuts, small things that consume our time, attention, and thoughts.

Idolatry is not just an ancient problem, nor just a modern one. It is the same in every age. Listen to these words penned in 1769: 
The dearest idol I have known, Whate'er that idol be, 
Help me to tear it from thy throne, And worship only thee. 
So shall my walk be close with God, Calm and serene my frame; So purer light shall mark the road That leads me to the Lamb.
"Be Thou My Vision" William Cowper

How do you know something is becoming an idol in your life? Let me suggest, for example: get rid of Netflix. It is taking too much of your time and the things you are watching are inappropriate. Let me guess, you are getting your back up and defensive as you prepare arguments why it is good, or at least worth keeping. At this point it is a good guess if it is not already an idol, it is on the way to becoming one.

Dearest Father in heaven, by the powerful presence of Your Spirit, help me to see what is becoming an idol in my life. God, the True Desire of Every Longing Heart, by Your Spirit fix my thoughts and attention on Jesus so that my walk will be serene as I walk in the light of Lamb. I confess how easily I am distracted. I confess how easily my attention turns to people, things, and worldly pursuits rather than the fulfilment of my deepest longing--to know You more. Amen.