Christian diary: God alone deserves worship

For us, jealousy is not attractive, but for God it is a sacred attribute. God is unhappy when we worship someone besides Him. He alone deserves our praise.

While reading the Old Testament, we may not understand why people bowed to idols - they certainly didn't think these objects were alive and powerful. But we make a similar mistake by placing too high a value on money, relationships, power and the like. While not inherently bad, these things can become the focus of our worship. This is why the Father is jealous of our heart.

There are two reasons why God will not tolerate our misplaced devotion. First, it deserves the glory. And second, there is nothing better for us than His love. Praising him above all else is actually in our best interest. Therefore, when our heart does not belong exclusively to Christ, He will use discipline and reminder, so we will give it priority.

This week, note where you spend your time and money and what dominates your thoughts. Even if your activities seem good on the surface, pray for what could be an idol in your life. Confess any inappropriate affection and ask the Lord for help to make him the object of your devotion.