Swhw Bible Reading Plan: AprilSample

Top Takeaway from Sarah Martin:

I just don’t think we can skim past the super strong language Jeremiah uses throughout this whole book of prophecy and warning. Bottom line: he is calling out Israel for straight-up idol worship.

It’s a grander narrative woven through the whole Old Testament. And based on these bold words of warning from a man who hears from God Himself, idols won’t ever be tolerated by the One who is worthy of singular worship.

We must also read the pain woven into God’s words that speak to those He intentionally chose to carry His love through the world. Israel, His beloved, continually turned away from God the Creator to worship, bow low, and sacrifice to that which is measly; created by human hands and imaginations…idols. Read the agony in these words:

“I said, How I would set you among my sons, and give you a pleasant land, a heritage most beautiful of all nations. And I thought you would call me, My Father, and would not turn from following me. Surely, as a treacherous wife leaves her husband, so have you been treacherous to me, O house of Israel, declares the Lord.” Jeremiah 3:19-20

Idols are erected because we don’t value God Himself.

Idols are erected because pride says God is holding out on us.

Idols are erected when we don’t trust God’s goodness.

Idols are erected when it’s easier to lift up something that doesn’t ask of us surrender and obedience.

Idols are erected on the personal level and the corporate level. That is why we, as women who choose the One and Only God, must commit to repent of our idols lifted up by our hands and the idols erected by the church. Yes, I went there. Celebrity culture in the church is rampant. And goodness,  through these unfathomable times we are living in, we should have learned that houses built on sand will wash away in turbulent times. 

But our One true God will not be shaken. (Hebrews 12:28) He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) And, in His grace, we get to turn away from those things that turn our gaze away and turn toward the One who captivates our soul and fulfills the desires He plants in our hearts…in abundance.

God, today, I commit to cast down every idol that takes my singular focus off You, my one true God. Forgive me for pride. Forgive me for discontent. Forgive me for placing my affections anywhere other than You, my Good Father. Your mercy leads me to repentance, and today, I turn toward You alone, Jesus. Amen!