What a description the LORD gives us of idol worship in Jeremiah’s day! Can’t you just picture how easily random pieces of wood became something people worshipped? So much emphasis was also placed on predictions of the stars that people’s minds were clouded from what mattered.
Our reading not only reveals idolatry for what it is in God’s eyes, but it reminds us who is sovereign and what we can do to help people who are misled by idols. It does us good to strengthen our own devotion to read Jeremiah’s words mixed in with God’s messages.
Idolatry is a crucial faith issue facing our culture today, not just something we read about in Scripture. Our idols, while probably not decorated pieces of wood, are just something else that distracts us from God. Our idols become the very things we give our attention to, like the hope we seek in those things we make or create ourselves.
Just as Jeremiah declares, this text is clear. “LORD, there is no one like you! For you are great, and your name is full of power.” Other gods can not compare. The LORD is the one and only God. The LORD moves and makes things happen. We can depend on the LORD and his promises.
Jeremiah sees the foolishness in the worship of idols. It is all around him. He must feel like he is surrounded and nearly hopeless of changing any minds. He doesn’t want his fellow children of God to be lost forever.
What do you say to people who are blinded by idolatry? Jeremiah suggests reminding them of the obvious. “Your so-called gods, who did not make the heavens and earth, will vanish from the earth and from under the heavens.” Then, to offer a solution to that dilemma, Jeremiah gives us brilliant testimony about God’s greatness.
When it comes to testimonies about God, you probably have your own story of how God has changed you or redirected your life at some time. Chances are pretty good that there was some present day “idol” holding you back from your relationship with God. How powerful our stories can be to help others see and connect with the truth!
We’re not that different from Jeremiah. What story do you have to help another person find their way back to God’s loving arms?
Let’s pray … Lord, protect me from the distractions that seem to vie for my attention. You are the one true God, creator of all things. Your power is beyond my comprehension. I worship and adore you and you alone. Cleanse and purify my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
