Scripture

“Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?”

Observation

Some of the leaders of Israel visit Ezekiel. While they are talking with him, Ezekiel receives a word from the Lord that these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will lead them to sin. The Lord will answer all those who reject him in this way.

The Lord then says to Ezekiel, “If the people of a country were to rebel and the Lord sent a famine against them, then even if Noah, David and Job were there, they would not be able to save anybody but themselves.” This would apply to other punishments such as wild animals, invasion by an army, or disease. The Lord will send all four of these things to Israel, but there will be survivors who will join the exiles in Babylon,

Application

The Lord rebukes leaders who have set up idols in their hearts. What might these idols be?

An idol is a representation of a false god whom you give your devotion to. To set up an idol in your heart is to give allegiance to something that stands against God, even if there is no physical representation of it.

These idols of the heart might be greed, lust, jealousy, pride, career and so on. Not all of these things are bad in themselves, but they can lead us to do things that are opposed to God,

A person who sets career as their idol might be tempted to do unethical and sinful things to get ahead. Someone who is jealous will find their heart being consumed by bitterness,

There is only one “idol” that we should allow into our lives and that is Jesus. Only He will give us true joy, true peace and true security.

Listen

Lord, what do you want to say to me today about these idols of the heart?

Keith, all people should have me at the centre of their heart’s desires. Whenever their desires are corrupted or misdirected, then that is an idol. Many Christians pay lip service to serving me, but their heart idols get in the way,

Put aside every desire that is not from me. Do not embrace what leads to sin. Instead seek first my kingdom and my righteousness, and I will give you every good thing.