DISCUSSION
Idolatry is not a word that we would think to have to be concerned with in the brotherhood. When we think of idolatry, our mind conjures up images of Buddha or some other powerless figurine to which mindless followers are bowing down. Although there may be some truth to that, idolatry is much more of a threat to the believer than we might want to think. The same was true for the Children of Israel as they were preparing for their conquest of the Promise Land. This was so much of a concern of God’s, that He sent word to Moses to warn them of the dangers of idolatry. “Take care lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them.” (Deuteronomy 11.16). I can only answer for myself, but I just don’t think I would be tempted to bow down to a figurine of an overweight man, who really has no power at all. However, I have found myself bowing down to a great many other things; lust, pride, hatred, greed, selfishness. The problem with these types of things is that they may not have a specific form, but they do have a tremendous amount of power. God’s warning to the nation of Israel still has relevance for us today. Don’t be deceived; anything that hampers your relationship with God is a powerful idol.
Prayer Requests:_______________________________________________________________