SCC Pastors' Blog

Hi Everyone,

Sunday’s message was a good reminder to me about how easy it is to get way off track while professing our loyalty to God.  It was somewhat comforting to read Jonah’s story and realize that even God’s prophets threw tantrums when God didn’t perform to their expectations . . . I’m sure it must have been “righteous indignation” right!?  I guess I’m not the only one!

It’s good to remember that we are not defenseless against the idols that permeate our hearts.  We can identify them and replace them if we will regularly take an honest look at our:
IMAGINATIONS – What do you daydream about when your mind is in “neutral”?
HOW WE SPEND OUR MONEY – Do you spend more on recreation and entertainment than you give to support ministry?
FUNCTIONAL DAILY SALVATION – What is your life really devoted to?
UNCONTROLLABLE EMOTIONS – Look for idols behind your emotions, especially when they trigger emotional melt-downs, prolonged periods of gloominess, or drive you to do things you know are wrong.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.  For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.  When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.  Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.  Colossians 3:1 – 5

Blessings,
 
John