Romans 1:20-25
20From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God.
21Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. The result was that their minds became dark and confused. 22Claiming to be wise, they became utter fools instead. 23And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people, or birds and animals and snakes.
24So God let them go ahead and do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other's bodies. 25Instead of believing what they knew was the truth about God, they deliberately chose to believe lies. So they worshiped the things God made but not the Creator himself, who is to be praised forever. Amen. NLT
Glorious God, Ever-living Creator,
You are highly exalted! No other gods can give us greater gifts. The gifts You give cost more than we could ever pay. You are able to do just as You please. You give us puffy clouds and warm sunshine; pouring rain and howling winds; blue skies and majestic mountains; rolling seas and roaring thunder; fruitful plains and dry deserts; fragrant flowers and gentle breezes.
Instead of graciously accepting these gifts, we often toss them aside without unwrapping them, like spoiled, unappreciative children. Instead of longing for more of You, we wish for trinkets and trophies made of silver and gold. Forgive us, O Lord, for trading Your eternal treasures for temporary trash.
Chiseled mouths can’t speak. Painted eyes can’t see. Carved ears can’t hear. Wood and metal can’t breath. They are dead! When we choose to keep and value them we become like them – spiritually dead.
Have mercy on me, Living God! Remove the idols that I’ve allowed to clutter the temple of my heart, Your home. It’s time for a good housecleaning. Purify my heart. Sanctify my soul. Breath new life into me. Open my eyes to see the priceless treasures You offer me. Open my ears to hear Your voice. Open my mouth to speak loving words of encouragement. Open my heart to every spiritual blessing You have for me. Be exalted O God, above all the silver and gold trinkets and trophies this world has to offer. My Creator, You are worthy of all my worship and thanksgiving forever and ever because of Jesus. Amen.
What have you exalted above the Creator in your life? Are you willing to give it up for Him? The consequences of clinging to your idols are severe. I encourage you to read Romans 1:18-32, and take time to be holy.
Psalm 135
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