Friday: Influences of Idolatry

BIG IDEA: Distracted men produce a divided people

Scripture Reading: 1 Kings 11:4   

"For when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father."

Exodus 20:3 ESV 

"You shall have no other gods before me."

Solomon's relationships with foreign wives eventually led to idolatry, drawing his heart away from God. This passage highlights the dangers of forming alliances that lead us to adopt ungodly practices or beliefs. The Scriptures clearly command us to avoid letting anything or anyone take the place of God in our hearts, a warning Solomon failed to heed. This divided heart eventually contributed to the fracturing of the kingdom.

The lesson is clear: we must guard our hearts and remain steadfast in our faith, choosing our influences wisely. We must not allow ourselves to be “unequally yoked” with those that don’t keep the main thing the main thing. Engaging with others who pull us away from God, physically or ideologically, can have far-reaching consequences on our spiritual journey.

Action Step:  

Evaluate your friendships and influences, asking God to strengthen those that align with His will and to help you distance yourself from others that lead you away from Him.

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, may my heart ever cling to You. Protect me from influences that lead me away from Your will, and help me maintain a steadfast and undivided heart. Amen.

Song: 

"No Other Name”  No Other Name - Hillsong Worship