Nothing Between

 You shall have no other gods before me.  – Exodus 20:3

God’s command is clear. He wants you to follow and worship Him only. St. Augustine wrote, “Idolatry is worshipping anything that ought to be used, or using anything that ought to be worshipped.” Pastor Adrian Rogers stated, “An idol is anything you love more, fear more, value more, or serve more than you do Almighty God.” 

When was the last time you did a spot-check to see if you were idolizing someone? A twelve-year-old might idolize a pop star, papering his bedroom with posters and photos, perhaps following him or her on a social media site. Chances are they have never met; but the youngster emulates a hairstyle, a wardrobe, or the vocabulary of the one so revered. 

You have outgrown such hero worship. The old hymn presents a challenge: “Nothing between my soul and the Savior; nothing between like pride or station; self-life or friends shall not intervene; though it may cost me much tribulation, I am resolved: There’s nothing between.” Do those lyrics reflect the level of your commitment to the Lord? He, after all, is fully committed to you. 

As you come to the Lord in prayer today, let the words of this old hymn be like a mirror that accurately reflects your daily walk and relationship with Jesus. Then pray that worship among the nation’s leaders would grow in integrity until the beauty of Jesus is actually seen in them. 

Today’s Verse:  Exodus 20:3

You shall have no other gods before me. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: Proverbs 3:1-8

My son, do not forget my teaching, 
    but let your heart keep my commandments, 
2 for length of days and years of life 
    and peace they will add to you. 

3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; 
    bind them around your neck; 
    write them on the tablet of your heart. 
4 So you will find favor and good success 
    in the sight of God and man. 

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, 
    and do not lean on your own understanding. 
6 In all your ways acknowledge him, 
    and he will make straight your paths. 
7 Be not wise in your own eyes; 
    fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. 
8 It will be healing to your flesh 
    and refreshment to your bones. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.


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