From “Embracing Your Second Calling: Find Passion and Purpose for the Rest of Your Life” by Dale Hanson Bourke
A friend sent me the materials from a Bible study on Galatians she was doing in her church in New York, Redeemer Presbyterian. The study, by Tim Keller, was entitled “Idols of the Heart,” and I knew when I first started reading the worksheet that it was aimed right at me. I was almost tempted to throw it out because I knew if I read it and took it seriously, I would have to change my life. (Tim Keller’s latest book, Counterfeit Gods further develops these concepts.)
Part of the worksheet contained a list of the types of idolatry many modern-day men and women embrace. In part, it included statements like this:
- Approval idolatry: “Life only has meaning/I only have worth if I am loved and respected by…”
- Control idolatry: “Life only meaning/I only have worth if I am able to get mastery over my life in the area of…”
- Helping idolatry: “Life only has meaning/I only have worth if people are dependent on me.”
- Work idolatry: “Life only has meaning/I only have worth if I am highly productive and get a lot done.”
- Achievement idolatry: “Life only has meaning/I only have worth if I am being recognized for my accomplishments/excelling in my career.”
The list goes on, and I could think of a few of my own to add. When we begin to get at the roots of our idols and addictions, it’s not a pretty picture. One suggestion from the study is to think about what you fear the most or what you worry about most often.If you follow that trail, you almost always arrive at the foot of an idol.
Do you fear being embarrassed? Are you worried no one will need you? Do you dread losing your physical attractiveness? If so, the idols of pride, helping, and beauty are lurking in your heart. If you have a hard time spotting them, begin to pray and ask God to reveal them to you. I can assure you, from personal experience, that God is very willing to help us open our eyes and see our idols.