For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Romans 1:20)
Observation: In the Amplified text instead of “being understood for what has been made” it says “clearly discernible in and through the things that have been made (His handiworks)”. Since the dawn of creation God’s character has been able to be witnessed through creation itself, through nature and weather, plants and animals, even human beings. And we have witnessed it; all of humanity together, and somehow still we find ways to put aside His glory for the sake of creation’s beauty. Sin is crafty, distorting our lens and keeping our hearts desiring earthly substitution for heavenly things. In other words, sin helps us find ways to worship the creation, and not the creator. And idols can be any of it.
Application: So, I’m an idolater. I have idols and I turn to them for fulfillment instead of God.
How does this apply? Um, cus I don’t bother to look past creation to the presence of God and his Glory, I just see the creation. Case and point, the other day I was having a rough time and I texted someone and asked them to say something nice to me so I would feel better. Even as I was doing it, I knew I was in the wrong. I could hear the words of a radio interview with Fabs in which she basically said that the key to satisfaction in Him is two-fold: not receiving your worth from the words of men, and seeking it from God.
Prayer: God, I’m sorry! I know I’ve said it before, and I’ve confessed this before, but I keep doing it again! Forgive me! I’m a mess! UGH!
Ok Lord, I’m done with the passionate lamenting. I’m just so sick of myself, and I want more of you defining me than this world. I want your leadership and encouragement; I want your fulfillment and peace. Please help me in this area where I constantly fail to beat sin down. Please cleanse my heart with your Holy Spirit; I need a full on submersion and scrub down. And thank you. Thank you for being patient with me. Thank you for telling me where I am sinful so that I can turn to you for help and support. Thank you for being willing to help me. Thank you.