Charles Stanley Daily Devotional Worship God Only – Worship God Only Charles Stanley Daily Devotional: James 4 vs.4-8 says “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded”.
When reading the old testament, we might not understand why people bowed down to the idols they had made but we so often make similar mistakes like placing so high a value on things like money, relationships, appearance and power, even though this items are not bad in themselves, they can become objects of worship if we prioritise them above God. that is why he is jealous for our hearts.
There two foundational reasons the lord give those of us who are believers opportunities to keep our devotions in balance, firstly he deserves the glory, secondly he loves us and wants the best for us. praising God above all else is actually in our own best interest.
So, when our heart does not belong solely to Christ, he disciplines us, this might mean he allows challenges to come our way and to remind us that he is the one and only God. Hardships are not pleasant but we can be encouraged that God wants us to be made complete in him.
This week, notice where you spend your time and money and what dominates your thoughts, even if your pursuit seems good on the surface, ask the lord to reveal whatever has become an idol in your life, confess any misplaced affection and ask for his help in making him the object of your devotion.