Little-g gods, Part III
Over the last two days, I have been discussing false gods. You can catch the last two posts here and here. I just finished Kelly Minter’s book No Other Gods and you can think of this as part book review part life application.This book has allowed me to look at certain idols in my past and in my present. Some are easier to identify than others. The number on the scale in the morning, the bottom line in my check registry. But others are a little more difficult to recognize. For instance, looking at Facebook on my phone, snacks in the pantry, the television.Just yesterday, as I was finishing this book, I realized a huge idol that I have been clinging to, especially since letting go of my career: Jason’s work schedule. And only when there has been a lack in it, as there has been this week, have I realized the little-g idol it has become in my life. It is something I have used and abused when life is hard and that ultimately has replaced God and his truth, love and sovereignty.I’m really good at running to false gods. It’s a little harder to identify them. And it’s even harder to learn how to not run to them but rather to God. That’s what makes this post more difficult for me. Discussing how to run towards God and not to little-g’s.Because the recognition of a false god is so fresh in my life right now, I want to share with you some of the things I’ve done in the last 24 hours that have helped me turn to God. (I’m working on the running towards God part).First, insight. Our counselor that we saw for the first couple of years after Jason’s disclosure would always say: “insight, insight, insight.” It’s key. So, when I am able to identify how I am feeling, and identify what I am running to, I am able to at least tap the breaks on the roller coaster ride to little-g’s. (this all happened yesterday).Second, seeking God. There are certain things that work for me to feel closeness to God. Running and praying, reading my Bible, praying with others, a good book. Bring them all on!Finally, another thing that helps me turn towards God is to recall the moments in my life where He has come through. Even the little things. The little blessings and miracles. And when I start to recount my blessings and give thanks, my heart is more in tune with His. (I’ve started a journal of gratitude this year as well as a journal of the kairos moments in my life, even the little things.)Here is my entry for yesterday in my gratitude journal: “52. I believe God revealed a really big idol in my life yesterday. Although identifying it is step one, I am grateful for the opportunity to turn towards God and not this particular idol…”
Matthew 11:28-30 promises us this: “Come to me all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
I’d love to hear from you. What have you found helps you turn away from the false gods in your life and run after the real God? This is an area that I am absolutely working through in the here and now, so please share with me what has worked for you.