Idol Worship? Idle Religion?

Before Paul was able to stand against the idol worship and religion of the Athenians, he had to stand against the idol worship and religion in his own life (Philippians 3:4–11). We must make sure that as we stand up for our faith that our hearts are continually examined. 

Here are some questions to consider as you examine your life.

– As I carefully examine my heart, do I find Christ as the object of my worship, or do I find a crowded altar?

– As I look carefully into my heart, do I see more time spent on sacrifices (going through religious motions) than on obedience out of love?

– Do I expend more energy toward outward appearances than inward change?

– Do I spend more time reading the Bible to find fault with others rather than to correct myself?

– Do I enjoy hearing the Word much more than doing the Word?

– Where do I really spend my time, money, and energy?

When I carefully examine my life, I see that religion sometimes creeps in to try to snuff out my dynamic relationship with Jesus. I must continuously examine my life because “everything exposed to the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible” (Ephesians 5:13–14). I know that as I share my faith with others I am most effective when I share from the overflow of my relationship with Jesus. I know that sharing from that kind of overflow is impossible when I am bound down by religion or idol worship. My heart must be fully devoted to Him at all times so that the world might clearly see the One in whom I have such incredible hope!