DAY 156 - BIG PICTURE IN A YEAR - THE LAW

YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FOR YOURSELF AN IMAGE. YOU SHALL NOR BOW DOWN TO THEM OR WORSHIP THEM; FOR I, THE LORD YOUR GOD, AM A JEALOUS GOD. BUT SHOWING LOVE TO A THOUSAND GENERATIONS OF THOSE WHO LOVE ME AND KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS.

Exodus 20:4-6

Reading: Exodus 20: 22-26; Exodus 32: 7-8

The apostle John was no stranger to the danger of idolatry for Christians. 

"Dear children," he said (1 John 5: 21) "keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts."

This is not a new command. It is, in fact, the second of the Ten Commandments given to Moses by the Lord. This second commandment, similar to the first, establishes again that the Lord who delivered them from Egypt, is the true God whom the Israelites must serve. They must not make any images that they bow down to.

Soon after the initial giving of the Ten Commandments, God reinforced this commandment again to Moses and said that even their altars should not be made of anything more elaborate than simple earth or undressed stone.

God knows that people are easily attracted to that which they can see and experience - that which they can control. If this was allowed in worship practice, their hearts would turn from Him. 

Ironically, even while the Lord and Moses were engaging on the fiery mountain, regarding the issue of idolatry, the people below made a golden calf and began worshipping it. They clearly had zero trust in God. 

Does God feel like an uncontrollable being to you? Do you try and make all sorts of deals with Him: “if I do this, then will you do that”?

Beware of this thinking - its idolatrous. The true God is not One who will change to suit your desires. He is a jealous God. He demands faith. 

Prayer

Lord, forgive me where I have made other plans to serve You according to my own purposes. I trust in You. I trust that You love me and that Your plans for my life are good and trustworthy. I believe that You are faithful to deliver as You have promised.

For the family

Explain

Discuss with your children how God is faithful to His promises by observing how you have been blessed whenever you have obeyed God.