American Idols

“Do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything the LORD your God has forbidden.  For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.”    —Deuteronomy 4:23-4

The American Idol show is back and alive and well. This reality TV show auditions would be singers from across the nation and allows the American public to vote for their favorites. Contestants are eliminated one by one until only one remains, the next American Idol. The show has changed celebrity judges and gone to different cities but continues as a top rated program.

The idols of our American culture may change color, shape, and size through the years but remain alive and well, today.  One may define an idol as “anything other than God that we are tempted to worship, emulate, or believe will save us.” To the average American in pursuit of the American dream, an idol may be anything we believe can bring us life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s built in our DNA.

A few years ago, I identified five American Idols. I believe they, too, are alive and well.

Viva Las Vegas—pleasure brings peace and contentment.

The Mall—the accumulation of things will bring us safety and joy.

The Big Game—a fixation on sports and winning.                               

Fame—celebrity worship

Wireless—always being connected and on the go.

As I reviewed the list, I thought I really don’t struggle much with idols. Well, OK, I only watch golf if Tiger Woods or John Daley is playing. Talk about fallen celebrity worship. I was feeling pretty smug until I read a book by Greg Dutcher, You are the Treasure that I Seek. The subtitle really describes the challenge for us, “But there’s a lot of cool stuff out there, Lord.”

Dutcher says one way to identify the idols you worship is by observing that when your idol shakes, you shake. I thought about the things that trouble me or keep me awake at night. The lack of growth in the church, a poorly attended worship service, or a drop in giving causes me to stress. I guess I equate numerical success with God’s approval. Success may become an idol.

God called me to proclaim the Good News to those who have never heard or somehow missed it growing up. Since I use an interpersonal and testimonial style of evangelism, I depend upon personal attraction and character. In idol terms, I want people to like and respect me. In serving that idol, I seek to please people and do the right thing at the same time. One can seldom do both. Jesus always did the right thing, but they crucified Him.

What American idols are keeping you from following the Lord more fully? Maybe the five listed above aren’t problems for you. Then, identify yours. When your idol shakes, you will shake. So ask yourself, “What causes me to shake?” The scriptures tell us that God is a jealous God, an all consuming fire. God will not tolerate idols in any form. Ask the Lord to search your heart and reveal anything that competes with God for your love and devotion. Repent. Seek Jesus as your one and only treasure.