“I make a terrible Jesus.”- Mary Demuth’s friend Stacey
In today’s post, Mary DeMuth (The Wall Around Your Heart) continues her discussion of ways to revere God in the way we handle adversity.
3. Don’t make people or their opinions idols. Mary notes that some people believe the fundamental point of life is for others to make them happy. She adds that when we deify others, making them idols, lifelong injury and bitterness will result:
“What is an idol? It’s something (someone) that you run to first when you need help . . . . It’s what you feel you need to be happy. An idol represents control. It’s the ducks-in-a-row we long for on earth but seldom experience. It’s anything (or anyone) in your life that’s more important than God.”
Mary then lists the warning signs of idolatry. Here are four of those signs:
a. your happiness is directly tied to the way someone treats you
b. if someone hurts you, your day/week/month is forever tainted
c. someone has the power to plunge you into either euphoria or depression
d. your sin, sadness, or disappointment always hinges on some other person
The author emphasizes that we need to realistically understand that God designed us to be filled up by Him first. We’re all people in need of a Savior. Jesus must be Jesus.
Today’s question (from Mary): In what ways have people become idols in your life? Describe one way that you can dethrone someone’s power over your life. Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “We’re in good hand with God”
