Who/What Do You Worship

When I taught a Sunday School class of young children, I always thought it was simple and fun to teach Old Testament stories in which people worshiped idols. Sometimes I would illustrate by telling the students to imagine worshiping something like the table or a trophy or glass. I would facetiously pray to the table, "Oh, table, please be with my family today...." as I was trying to illustrate what it means to worship an object.

Today's devotional is a powerful reminder about present day idol worship - including such things as possessions, money, status in the community, power, etc. Sarah Young's words spoke so clearly to me when she said, "False gods never satisfy; instead, they stir up lust for more and more." I admit that in the past, I have been described as somewhat of a "shopaholic" which is simply one way of showing dissatisfaction with what I have. I certainly have more than I really need but still get a joy out of "more!" My non-trusting thoughts remind me of words of Paul when he said, "I have learned to be content in any and every situation."

I recently heard one of our pastors talk about the spiritual discipline of "simplicity." Her sermon was a wonderful reminder that when we simplify our lives by getting rid of unneeded/unused "stuff," we often can spend more time focusing on our Lord and worshiping Him. That is one of the major spiritual disciplines on which I am working and praying for God's help.

Do you know people who are living in total peace and contentment with what they have? On the other hand, do you know those who have a lot but continue to "lust for more?" How can we overcome "idol worship" since we know that is the only way that God's Peace, Presence and Joy can truly fill us?