Shapes

I was reading my devotion this morning in Romans 1:20 (definitely read this verse if you have a moment).  I continued reading in chapter one for full context and was struck by verse 22 which states, "Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.  And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles."  (NLT version)  It seems outdated now to think of idols like these, but we continue to find things in our lives which take our attention away from God.  What is the shape of my idol?  The challenge for any Jesus follower is to identify the shape of what keeps their time, talent, attention, and affection away from Elohim (God our Creator). 


Can I be honest?  I have many idols.  The more this question rolls around inside my head and heart, the more I am keenly aware my life doesn't revolve around my relationship with God.  Particularly the idol shaped like my children.  Motherhood has been one of the most amazing ways to know and acknowledge the love of my Heavenly Father.  It has also been the door for allowing my hopes, dreams, and fears concerning our kids to consume my life.  Perhaps you are in the same position I am, or, perhaps, your idol may take a different shape.  Entertainment, shopping, eating, porn, media devices - we all have something vying for our attention.  What is yours?


 My children are a gift from God, not my god.  Motherhood is a revelation of God's goodness, love, and mercy, but never to take his place as first and foremost in my life.  This is the tension and reality of living in a fallen world.  Identifying the people, items, and events which pull us away from our Creator are essential.  Take time to think about your idol's shape and ask God for help returning him to his rightful place as your number one.  


(This is a difficult process.  I don't want to make light of it or act like a quick Band-Aid is easily applied.  Sometimes these shapes are scary, dark, and addicting.  If you realize your idol may be too much for you to tackle on your own, make sure to ask for help and find accountability with trustworthy people who will walk with you and not judge.)