ARE YOU AN IDOL WORSHIPPER?

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Today’s Reading:

Acts 17:16-31

'Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he observed that the city was full of idols.” (Acts 17:16)

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Athens in Greece was a centre of ancient philosophy. Three to four hundred years before, this city was the home of some of the greatest philosophers of the world. World-known philosophers like Aristotle, Epicurus and Zeno once resided and taught in Athens. The culture therefore was based on the thinking of some of the greatest philosophers of the ancient world. This city gave themselves so much to idols that they have several shrines and they even raised one specially and wrote to the unknown God, peradventure there is another one who existed, but they didn't recognize.

Idol worshipping was common in those days and still very much in existence in our contemporary world just that there are ancient and modern ways of worshipping idols. Let me give two personal definitions of idol as the Lord lays upon my heart, as I write this piece. One, idol is any object (real or unreal) that you honor, worship, and fear to the extent that such determines your existence. Two, the idol is anything (concrete or abstract) that you give more attention to and your heart is connected to it. They are things that take the place of God in your life.

If l may ask this question, are you an Idol Worshipper? I am sure your answer will be capital no. But let's check the following after which you can categorically say you are not an idol worshipper. If you are guilty of any of the following, then you are an idol worshipper.

• You cherish your phone more than your Bible. You never go late to work but you go to church late now and then.

• You still struggle to give to God (in tithes and offerings) but you never struggle to spend money on mundane things

• You can miss church because one of your earrings is missing or your clothing is not well ironed, but you manage to meet an appointment without it.

• You place your relationship with people above God. You always have time for people but you don't have time for God.

• God has been calling you to give up your work and take on ministry on a full-time basis but you keep postponing.

• When you honour, respect and cherish your work, money or boss more than God.

All l have said above may not be the issues with you but allow the Spirit of God to x-ray your heart and point out idols in your life. For no idol worshipper shall inherit the kingdom of God.

JAMES ALADE

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To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”

If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.

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Prayer:

1. Open my eyes of understanding to see the idols in my heart

2. Oh Lord, dethrone whatever that is taking your place in my life in Jesus’ name