Scripture: Jeremiah 10:1-16

“But the God of Israel is no idol! He is the Creator of everything that exists, including Israel, his own special possession. The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is his name!” (Jeremiah 10:16, NLT).

Observation:

Among this denunciation of idolatry, Jeremiah offers God high praise. Unlike an idol of gold-covered wood, the Lord speaks to Israel (v.1). Idols are toted for they have no power, but even God’s name has power (v.5,6). Wooden idols are crafted by men, but God created the heavens and the earth (v.16). Idols have no help to give, but God preserves the earth by his wisdom (v.12). Seeking an idol’s help is futile, but the Lord of Heaven’s Armies can defend the people he has made his special inheritance (v.16).

Application:

It’s easy to laugh at Jeremiah’s description of people bowing down to and seeking counsel from a chunk of wood they’ve made into a god. Yet my idols—the things I’ve created to give me advice, help, and power—are just as laughable. How frustrated God must be when I consult self-help books rather than pray for his Spirit’s enlightenment of his Word. How useless are bank accounts, retirement funds, and insurance in the face of real tragedy. How powerless I remain when I use my own resources rather than ask for the Creator’s powerful intervention.

Prayer:

Father, thank you that are God alone. There is none like you! Forgive me for turning to what I have created and prized instead of to you. Draw me deeper into yourself, and make me your special possession. Prompt me to come to you, powerful loving God, who can change my heart, my life, and my world. Keep me steadfast in my dependence on you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.