Good News Digest
Edition 70 - August 29, 2012
What is Idolatry?
When I searched my Bible Browser for the word "Idolatry" I found 22 references plus a whole commentary of the subject. In scripture "Idolatry" generally means worshipping an image of anything which, to you, represents God. Colossians 3:5  defines idolatry as greed: Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. There are many forms of idolatry and a more specific definition would be "putting more trust in someone or something than you do in God". This could be a Pastor, a parent, a government, and even a candidate for President of the United States. We need to understand that idolatry is a serious sin, however, even this sin can be forgiven. The first commandment is "You shall have no other gods before me" - Exodus 20:3. Since we are nearing probably the most important presidential election in history it is important for me to comment upon another but less obvious form of idolatry which is knowingly voting for a candidate that will act against God's will. I heard Kenneth Copeland (Click the link to view the program) point this out today while talking to his guest David Barton, the noted Constitutional expert. Brother Copeland said something to this effect "If you knowingly vote for a candidate who favors or promotes abortion or any other practice contrary to God's will you are practicing idolatry". He also said that if you vote for a candidate whom you know will go against God's will simply because you think he would be better for the economy you are practicing idolatry. This fits with the first definition of idolatry which is greed. So the lesson here is that you don't have to erect a statue of some pagan god and bow down and overtly worship it in order to be guilty of idolatry.  says that the ancient Israelites had set up idols in their hearts. So it all goes to motivation. What is the motivation of your heart that causes you to put something in a prior importance than God Himself? It could be your own flesh or creature comforts. In Exodus 20:4 God says "I am a jealous God". The message: Always put God first place in your heart.  Hal Mitchell Ready Writer Ministries PS Don't forget to click on Great is Thy Faithfulness in the sidebar on the left for a wonderful rendition by Cece Wynans. You will be blessed!
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