Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Listen to the Word

All who make idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Those who would speak up for them are blind; they are ignorant, to their own shame. (Isaiah 44:9)

One common and dangerous God substitute is the idol of human applause. We tend to live for admiration and approval. We assume that if people like us, we will be fulfilled. We bow at the altar of our own reputation and image.

This idol is highly destructive. You want somebody to think you are cool, so you sacrifice your integrity to try to impress them. You want somebody to think you are skinny, so you abuse your body to achieve that aim. You want somebody to think you are important, so you go into debt up to your eyeballs to maintain appearances. The cost of the applause you receive is much greater than its value.

Live the Word

Ask God to help you live today for an audience of One, seeking only his approval.