“WORSHIPPING A BLOCK OF WOOD”
(Isaiah 44:1 – 47:15)
“All who fashion idols are nothing, and the things they delight in do not profit.” – Isaiah 44:9
All of us should certainly acknowledge, as does Isaiah in our text, that God is the first, the last, and besides Him, there is no God. We must declare it, proclaim it, and fear not or be afraid, for our God is the only true god.
In chapter 44, Isaiah describes the folly of those who worship idols. They cut a tree down, use part of it for fire and to cook, and take the remaining “block of wood” (:19) and carve out an object to treasure and worship. How foolish! That person has a “deluded heart” and has been led astray.
While we recognize the foolishness of worshiping a block of wood, are we nonetheless guilty of creating our own idols? Are there objects that you have that you cherish and perhaps hold to such a high value that you are literally worshiping them? Are there certain idols in your life?
I would submit to you that anything – literally anything – that has pre-eminence in your life, that you place above your life and service for Jesus, has become an idol, and keeps you from truly worshiping Jesus Christ as Lord. What are those “blocks of wood”? Your job… your spouse… your hobby… your house…. None of those things are, by definition, “idols.” But the priority they have in your life may make them an idol – a block of wood.
Simple Truth:
Examine all the “things” in your life. Anything that takes more time, or is more valuable, than your relationship with Christ, is an idol.
Reflections and Application:
- This week, journal how much time you spend in each area of your life. Then, compare that with how much time and energy you have invested in serving the Lord.
- What is your most valuable possession? Would you be willing to get rid of it, if it would improve your relationship with Christ?
- Are there any “blocks of wood” that are taking the place of worshiping the Lord in your life?
Closing Prayer…
Heavenly Father, my life has so many “moving pieces” in it, and it is so easy for me to have mixed priorities. Help me to recognize any area in my life that has become a distraction or a stumbling block, keeping me from worshiping You in Spirit and in truth. I ask this in Jesus’ name, amen.
About our Author
Tim Satryan has been in full time ministry since 1980. He has served five churches in four states. He has also served as the District Youth and Music Director for the PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God, was the Presbyter for the state of Delaware for over a decade, and for a number of years traveled with the AG Church Multiplication Network, teaching church planting and church revitalization.
READ MORE
In Christ: Union That Ends Striving
New to the Spaceby Rev James M. Armpriester, Jr What is Biblical Christianity? DAY 3 — In ChristWelcome to Day 3 of exploring Biblical Christianity. Let me start today with an honest observation. A lot of people don’t reject Christianity because they hate Jesus. They...
Why the Bible Matters: How God Restores the Interior Life
New to the Spaceby Rev James M. Armpriester, Jr What is Biblical Christianity? DAY 2 — Why The Bible MattersThanks for joining us today as we continue to discover What is Biblical Christianity. Yesterday we settled something foundational: God has spoken. If that’s...
What Is Biblical Christianity? Starting With What God Has Spoken
New to the Spaceby Rev James M. Armpriester, Jr What is Biblical Christianity? DAY 1 — GOD HAS SPOKEN Let me start with something simple—but painfully real. A lot of people aren’t rejecting Jesus because they’ve studied Him and decided against Him. They’re exhausted...