Modern-Day Idols

November 13, 2008

By Scott McChrystal

“Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless” (1 Samuel 12:21, NIV).

For some, it might seem the prophet Samuel’s advice to the people of Israel has little application for believers today. After all, who worships idols?

Not so fast! An idol can be anyone or anything that becomes more important than God in your life — rank, job, financial success, sports, hobbies, computers, physical fitness, TV and so forth.

Taken in proper perspective, any of the above can be worthwhile pursuits. Carried to extreme, they can become useless idols that never help or rescue you in time of need.

Want proof there are idols in our midst? Just look around and watch people place their hopes and confidence in man and material possessions. But those tactics don’t work, and they never will.

Our Heavenly Father deserves your worship. In your time of need, He alone can rescue you.

— Chaplain Col. (Ret.) Scott McChrystal serves as the military/VA representative for the Chaplaincy Department of the Assemblies of God.