I know your deeds, and your love and faith and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols. Revelation 2:19-20
Who doesn’t like shiny things? I do. Some shiny things are idols. Idols have a way of creeping into our lives. When I was a new Christian, someone defined idolatry to me this way. An IDOL is any Image Dethroning Our Lord. Hmmm. We tend to think of idols as little objects of affection (like our precious iPhones). But, really anything that supplants God can become an idol. Sometimes, the imagery that accompanies scrolling instagram could be an idol because we feel soothed somehow by what we scroll, when really our inner satisfaction could come from prayer with God. I know that sounds a bit harsh. Its more introspection. I like to ‘zone out’ and watch surfing videos, one after another- imagining myself riding the perfect wave or being in some exotic place. To some degree this is harmless, but in excess its escapism, if it leads to any type of behavior contrary to scripture its idolatry leading to immorality. That’s what was happening in Thyatira somehow. This port city was so influenced by worldliness that the angel of the church is told they are tolerating ‘Jezebel’ the queen of compromise and sinfulness. She was known for getting God’s people to commit acts of immorality and participate in pagan idolatry. Now, no clear thinking church leader would do that to the congregation. But, we must be vigilant, lift up Jesus to be worshiped and identify and crush the idols of the world before they take hold of people. When we do, we will have The Morning Star given to us. He shines brighter than any other seemingly precious thing.
What has crept into my life that is occupying a space rightfully reserved for my Lord and Savior? Has Jezebel infected me with her teachings and practices?
God, as this day begins- I am reflecting on how dirty and corrupt society is. It it clear to me that television and entertainment have been completely influenced by Jezebel and I have let my guard down. I want to fill my heart and mind with noble, pure, and praiseworthy thoughts. Help me to do that and to embrace the Morning Star (Jesus the Son) more than any idol. Thank you for upholding me in my recent endeavors and finishing a milestone. As I minister the family today who is missing their loved one, help me extend your comfort and be a blessing.
