“Little children, keep yourself from idols” (1 John 5:21).

The missionary held the group spellbound as he spoke of the land, culture, and people of the far away country in which he ministered. “The people,” he said, “the precious people we are trying to reach, do not know the true and living God. They rise early in the morning to worship their idol. They pray to a handmade figure that they can hold in their hands.” The group of believers responded in amazement that anyone could love an idol, something made with their own hands. Then the missionary startled them as he reminded them that they also could have idols. “Anything you love more than God; anything that you give more time and attention to than the Lord might be your idol.” Much soul-searching took place that day as personal priorities were challenged and corrected.

For today: Lord, please help us to love and honor You with all our heart, soul and mind. Keep us from idols!”