+DEV+ The Beginning of Idolatry

Date: October 21, 2010 11:41 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The Beginning of Idolatry

The Beginning of Idolatry

"Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom" (Psalm 45:6).
Scripture Focus: Isaiah 14:12-15

We often refer to the President of the United States as the most powerful man on earth. He probably is, but he is not all-powerful, nor does he occupy an endless throne in the White House. He steps down from the presidency after four or eight years, and another person assumes that role.

Unlike the most powerful man on earth, God is all-powerful, reigning eternally from a throne in heaven. No one can usurp Him, though Lucifer, once a light-bearing angel, tried. He craved God's position of majesty and might. He wanted to be like God, receiving worship and dispensing orders to all of creation. However, his wicked scheme was doomed. God expelled him from heaven, and He will ultimately consign him to the Lake of Fire (see Isaiah 14:12, 15 and Revelation 20:10).

When tempted to demote God and exalt ourselves, let's remember that He is the Creator and we the created. Our lives are rich and full when we place them under the control of the One whose love, power, and throne are eternal.

Insight: Transfer of power is common in world politics, but thankfully God's power is non-transferable.