Im going to do 2 separate blogs on Ephesians 5 because I just can't choose today. The first bit of scripture that jumped out at me today was, “You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.” Ephesians 5:5 MSG
I liked this same verse in this translation too: “For it has been made clear to you already that the kingdom of God cannot be accessed by anyone who is guilty of sexual sin, or who is impure or greedy—for greed is the essence of idolatry. How could they expect to have an inheritance in Christ’s kingdom while doing those things?” Ephesians 5:5 TPT
Often as I read particular words in scripture that grab my attention, I don't allow my belief of what I "think" I know the word to mean to dominate my thoughts, I actually look up the word in the dictionary and sometimes I may even look at it's meaning in Hebrew.
Today the words GREED and IDOLATRY stood out to me. I knew I needed to get further understanding of their meanings as I unpacked the Word today.
Greed: intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food
Idolatry: is not only the worship of false gods or idols, but it can also manifest in the form of prioritizing material possessions, wealth, or success above God. This broader perspective on idolatry reveals the need for believers to examine their hearts and ensure that they are not placing anything or anyone above God in their lives.
Whew how humbling. It has me wanting to journal. I think I will. My prompt will be, Lord search me and know me and show any offensive way in me. Highlight anything or anyone Im placing above you in life Lord.
Im going to take some time to do this, this weekend. Ive done it before and He's shown me how at times It may be my work, a certain level of finances I feel I need, my children maybe, others' opinions of me, etc... all at times are of more Importance than they should be. Im feeling the need to do a bit of house cleaning today!
How about you? If knowing idolatry, placing anything or anyone above God, gets us nowhere, what are you in need reprioritizing of currently?
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