anti-idolatrous constitution

We are called, each of us, to have no idols, that is, to serve no god but Jesus. This is a given for every believer, and it comes directly from our constitution, as defined by Moses' stone tablets. In short, our attention is called to be drawn only to God.

I believe the most ironic thing about the remainder of the commandments is simply that, were we to take the anti-idolatry commandment to heart, and put it into literal practice, most of the other commandments wouldn't need to be included.

On a related note, I have found a simple definition of worship that I think will tie in nicely to both idolatry as well as faithfulness. In short, worship is to have a focus, and to attend to that focus. We can say that one's idol (or God) is the focus and attention to that focus is faithfulness.

Applications of idolatry, then, can include the fanaticism of popular music and sports, hearkening to other literal gods and goddesses, and many kinds of abstractions, to include overly focusing on one's family. Clearly, the more abstract an idolatrous relationship is, the harder it is to detect, and yet the idolatry itself is merely an indicator - which you've chosen, on some level, to fall away from God.

So my challenge to you is simple and has two parts:

(I) Answer this question:

What would your perfect day be?

Put some serious thought into the question and answer it as clearly and completely as you can. The goal here is to paint the picture with as many details as possible.
When you are done, take an objective look at your painting. Those elements in your day will include those things you are most passionate about. And they will likely include those things that have the most potential for separating you from God.

(II) Answer this question:

Have I ever chosen anything from my perfect day over God?

It is likely you have – so draw your attention to this possibility.

Set aside time and pray, talking with God about your goals and rebuilding your relationship with Him. Yes, we are called to take care of things and be good stewards of resources and families – but that is not to be a justification to choose those things over Jesus.