Idol Hearts

When Aaron saw [the idol cast in the shape of a calf], he built an altar before it. And Aaron made a proclamation and said, “Tomorrow shall be a feast to the Lord.” And they rose up early the next day and offered burnt offerings and brought peace offerings. And the people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play. 
Exodus 32:5-6 (ESV)

He declared himself the pastor of The First Baptist Church of Tiger Woods. 

John Zieglar, an avid golfer and talk radio host, loved to play the game and boasted a zero handicap. After watching Tiger in the Masters on April 1, 2000, he even launched a website called tigerwoodsisgod.com. John Zieglar grew disillusioned with the church and began to worship something else.

In our passage, the people of God wake early to eagerly bring their hearts and offerings in before a new-found hope. Then they throw a party, showing more enthusiasm and excitement in their worship of a false god than of the true God!  

Idolatry leads us to devise a false god. 

We are all tempted at times toward idolatry. In ancient times, idols were made by human hands. Today, most idols are conceived in the human heart. 

We want a god who approves of what we do instead of dictating what to do. We want a god who serves us, instead of a God we serve. Instead of a God we must please, we want a god who pleases us.

Often, it is actually the good things in our lives that become objects of worship. We take a good thing and turn it into a “god thing.” Family, sports teams, employment, money, or a beautiful home—all of these are good gifts from our heavenly Father but we must take care not to worship them.  

The Hebrew word for “play” in verse six suggests sexual immorality. In some form, “idol hearts” often become “idol hands,” leading to immorality. We may sacrifice our character on the altar of fame, rob God to keep more money, or give up our family to climb the corporate ladder. 

But these sources never solve our problems, strengthen our weaknesses, or supply our needs.

• Who or what receives your time, effort, money, and greatest attention?
• Where is your sense of security? 
• How do you find peace?

Seek God, and you will desire to grow closer to Him. The temptation toward false gods will deteriorate. 

Instead of “idol hands” lift holy hands in prayer, and experience the wonder of God.

Prayer: Father, I confess my tendency to devise a false God. But I know You save my soul and supply my needs. Through Your Spirit, show me the ways I may give my greatest affection to someone or something else. Lead me to an undivided heart of devotion. In Jesus’ name, amen.