Galatians 5:19  Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry,

 

Due to your many comments on the Morning Message yesterday, I feel compelled to spend one more day on the subject that the Word of God calls the sin of idolatry. The questions seem to be: What exactly falls into this sin category?

 

The example many of you asked about is sports, and this is a pet peeve with me. I like sports very much, but sports can easily become an idol in our lives and move us away from God instead of closer to Him. Although sports can be a family activity, this should not make it something that is all-consuming, and unfortunately, that’s exactly what sports have become in the lives of many families in America. 

 

When sporting games and tournaments become more important than God, it has become an idol. Whether we are participants or spectators, it doesn’t matter. Consider the enthusiasm of the fans at the ball game. Just imagine how the Body of Christ would look if believers got that excited about Jesus! 

 

My friends, God expects to be Number One in our lives. His Word tells us to put Him FIRST above everything else. ANYTHING that knocks God out of the Number One position in your life is an idol. I don’t care how wholesome or family-friendly it may seem. Jesus said, If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. (Matthew 16:24) The key words here are let him deny himself. 

 

When we deny ourselves and wholeheartedly follow Jesus, He will provide everything we need. Forget about trying to earn more money or build a bigger house than your neighbor. Set aside the desire for your team to go to the state championship so you can add another trophy to your collection. What does all that gain you in the Eyes of God? Does He care about your big house, huge bank account, or wall of trophies?  I don’t think so. All this is nothing more than idols, and remember what the Apostle Paul wrote in the Word of God after he listed the works of the flesh (which includes idolatry) ...........those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

 

Make Jesus First, and He will………turn the tide.........in your life.

Jesus first,      Doreen

 

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