OUR ONE TRUE GOD
Richard Harris
Today’s Scripture: “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.” Psalm 115:3, ESV
Theme: Our God does not change; we either worship Him as He is or it is not worship at all.
GOD IS, AND HAS ALWAYS BEEN, UNCHANGING
When Israel came back from slavery in Egypt, the Gentiles already living in the Promised Land practiced idolatry. They mocked the Jews, who would only focus on their LORD, the real God. Psalm 115 (although written later) provides an answer to taunts they may have experienced.
The inhabitants of that time worshipped gods of wood, silver, and gold. They were created in the image of what man wanted to see … How does that work out? We are made in the image of God, not the other way around.
Our God made the perfect heaven and the earth. All that we are, and have, and do, is under His authority. “He does as He pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth” (Daniel 4:35, NIV). There are many verses throughout the Bible that carry the theme of God’s Divine Sovereignty as being supreme over all earthly and heavenly powers. Our human limitations pale to our Creator’s unquestioned authority.
Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t read to the end of the Book yet … He prevails.
Those who do not worship God as He is, are not worshiping at all.
GOD IS NOT CUSTOMIZABLE
Idol worship still exists today and goes far beyond the idol worship of biblical times or temples and statues in foreign lands. While traditional idolatry focused on physical objects, modern idolatry is more subtle, residing in the heart's affections. It is characterized by making good things (like family or work) into "ultimate things," displacing God.
Idols, in today’s world, are often revealed by what we spend our money, time, and mental energy on. They are things we feel we cannot live without, which bring comfort and security, but ultimately leave us empty, requiring constant pursuit.
Modern-day idolatry is elevating anything above God, often manifesting through the worship of self, career, technology, and wealth rather than physical statues. Key idols, today, include social media, physical appearance, romantic relationships, and political ideologies that demand ultimate allegiance. These "high places" are defined by what we most desire, fear, or trust, leading to a neglect of spiritual life.
LET US RETURN TO OUR ONE TRUE GOD
There is no problem in working hard, for the gain of self, family, and God. While building a better world, we need to remember our true source of satisfaction through worship.
Ridding ourselves of modern idolatry requires actively replacing these false, unsatisfying gods with the worship of our Creator. The process involves daily repentance, cultivating a deep, personal relationship with Jesus, and intentionally shifting affections toward the only source of true life, satisfaction, and peace.
Make It Personal: As I look into my rear-view mirror, I am amazed at the fact that God was present throughout my entire life journey. Everything …. the good and the bad … all were necessary to create a thankfulness and gratefulness for all gifts received. All the changes in my life transpired because He never changes. He is the constant that provides our unwavering stability, that unconditional love we all seek, and the helping-hand of faithful guidance amidst the chaotic, ever-changing, and uncertain circumstances of this world. Take an honest look into your own rear-view mirror. Who has remained unchanged throughout time? Will you worship Him as He is and will always be?
Pray: Almighty Father, Creator of all things, the same God of Moses and all generations of humankind … our most humble thanks to You for all You have given throughout our human journey. You gave us this generous life of ours. You have been the one constant throughout all time. Hallowed be Thy Name. You have provided, guided, and sacrificed for the betterment of our own life journey. Perfection is your realm. Today we strive to worship You just as you are – unchanging and steady. Amen.
Read: Acts 17:24-25, Genesis 1:21, 1 Peter 3:15, Psalm 135:6, Job 23:13, Daniel 4:35
Weekly Memory Verse: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:2-3, ESV