Not too far off...
These Scriptures were written at a particular time, to a particular people, but they're not too far off from today.
"Now some of the elders of Israel came to me and sat before me. And the word of the LORD came to me, saying, "Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their hearts, and put before them that which causes them to stumble into iniquity. Should I let Myself be inquired of at all by them?" Eze. 14:1-3
The elders of Israel set up idols in their hearts. Their desires, possessions, & ways of living were more important than the Lord. They worshipped gods made by human hands & allowed their hearts to be captured by things.
The Lord reveals the consequences of their rebellion. Even if Noah, Daniel, & Job were in the land, their righteousness would deliver only themselves. Others could not rely on their faithfulness while continuing in their own rebellion.
As I read this today, I can't help but want to pour out my heart before the Lord & ask Him to expose anything within me that has taken His rightful place.
How easily our hearts can be captured by the things around us! Whether it's keeping up with the Joneses, pursuing possessions, or simply going along w/the majority, we can slowly allow other things to become more important than the Lord.
That's what makes this passage so relevant. Idolatry isn't always something we bow before. Sometimes it's something we've elevated within our hearts.
Today let these Scriptures lead us to the throne room as we humble ourselves before the Lord:
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you." 1 Peter 5:6-7, 10
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.