1 John 5:21 “Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.”
In conclusion to John’s first letter, he states emphatically that believers are to keep themselves from IDOLS. This command takes us back to the 2nd commandment of the Ten Commandments, which says, “You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. 5 You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods.” Exodus 20:4-5.
We might question if we need such a commandment today, as we surely would not be making physical idols. Yet I think the commandment is very much in need today as we have the potential to set up idols in our hearts. For instance, in Colossians 3:5 we read, “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” When we are materialistic, greedy, and in love with money and things, we have made possessions and treasure an idol of the heart.
Question to consider: What other things can become idols of your heart?
Over the years, I have been challenged to understand that an idol of the heart is anything that I would love more than Jesus. This challenge becomes a good filter. We find that we can love many things more than God. For instance, from 2 Timothy 3:2 we find “men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”
We can be in love with personal glory, gold, and/or good times!
As you live out your spiritual life, know that there is a fierce battle for your heart. The desires of the flesh, the things of this world, and even the devil battle to have a place on the throne of your heart that should be occupied by only Jesus. The admonition, the command of John, is relevant today as it was 2000 years ago. Guard your heart. Keep idols out. Love the Lord with ALL your heart.
So, what is seeking your love? Your devotion? What is competing against Jesus, who is to be sitting large and in charge of your heart? What do you need to be on full alert to keep your heart from idols?
Continue Strong, loving the Lord with ALL your heart,
And remember to daily DATE the Word