In Judges 1-3 we see the foolish Israelites once again turning to foreign gods. They were negligent in clearing the Promise Land of their enemies, and paid the price as they fell into temptation and worship gods of stone. It’s hard to believe that they could so easily forget everything God had done for them.
In Luke 12:32-59 we see a warning to forever be on guard, for we do not know the day or the hour of the Lord’s return. We’re encouraged to stay strong and focus on what’s important, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34). The Israelites showed that their hearts where with the enticements and rituals of foreign gods. Perhaps they liked the tangible nature of it, perhaps they liked the feeling of sin that washed over them as they participated in despicable acts, I really don’t know. Whatever it was, they showed that they really had no real devotion for God. This saddens me so much. Yet I see the same thing over and over again today. People, today, find other gods in their life to worship. Theirs god may be food, exercise, the Internet, or IPods. Their gods may be celebrities or romance novels or American Idols. Whatever they may be, these people put things and/or people above Jesus, the Lord of All. I’m not saying I’m completely innocent in this department. I, too, have had to prioritize from time to time. I, too, have realized that things and people have become more important to me than God. I, too, have realized that I spent far too much time on the Internet or watching movies, instead of focusing on what was the most truly important to me, God. This Valentine’s Day I’d like to say once and for all that my greatest love has always and will always be Jesus Christ. Yes, I love my husband oh so much, but I love God most of all. My ultimate treasure is in heaven (Matthew 6:20).
To this I give a hearty "Amen!" Couldn't have come at a better time, my friend.
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