Colossians 3 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“Therefore, put to death whatever in you is worldly: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, G_d’s wrath comes on the disobedient, and you once walked in these things when you were living in them.” Colossians 3:5-7

When I was young, my parents used to frequent a Chinese restaurant. Behind the cash register at this establishment were several ornate boxes, containing what I thought were “action figures”, posed amidst a constant stream of incense smoke. I recall asking the Chinese cashier about the dolls, and she told me they were her family gods.

For years, that experience formed my opinion of idolatry. My understanding was that an idol was a carving or picture that people prayed to and burned incense to. In return for the worship, I figured the idol would bless the worshipper. It all seemed silly to me. I was thankful that I didn’t grow up in a culture that worshipped idols.

Fast-forward several years.

I was in my mid 20’s and deep into the music business. I remember standing at a department store merchandise counter. I had an armful of clothes that I figured would look really cool on stage. (Of course, you can’t look dorky on stage…☺) The cashier zipped my credit card and discretely informed me that my card was declined. When I called the card company, I was astonished how much debt I had accumulated in such a short amount of time. That’s when I realized I was an idolater.

Yes, I had gotten into debt because of my idolatry. Here’s what I mean: I had bought-into a lifestyle, or “image”, which I pursued beyond G_dly accountability. I wasn’t satisfied with G_d’s provision, so I sold myself into the bondage of credit card companies, all to acquire the “image”. I had bestowed power & worship to the “image” to provide success and protect my lifestyle…power & worship that belonged to G_d!

Whenever felt G_d was inadequately showing-up for me, I simply trusted the “image” to grant me what G_d had denied. And that’s how I got into credit trouble as a young man!

Paul tells us that G_d’s wrath comes because of our idolatry. Maybe you have never worshipped carved stone & wooden idols. Nevertheless, the Bible says we ALL once walked in idolatrous ways. In some ways, perhaps, we still flirt with those former idols, on occasion. But there is HOPE for all choose to turn from their idolatry and walk with the L_rd, through placing their faith and trust in Yeshua. However, when we reject His ways, we open ourselves-up to His certain “rod of correction” and wrath of punishment.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Thursday, October 17, 2013