Resources/Tools vs. Idols

He cut down cedars, or perhaps took a cypress or oak... It is man’s fuel for burning; some of it he takes and warms himself, he kindles a fire and bakes bread.
 
But he also fashions a god and worships it; he makes an idol and bows down to it. Half of the wood he burns in the fire; over it he prepares his meal, he roasts his meat and eats his fill. He also warms himself and says, “Ah! I am warm; I see the fire.”

From the rest he makes a god, his idol; he bows down to it and worships. He prays to it and says, “Save me; you are my god.”
Isaiah 44:14-17 (see also Is. 46:4-9)

I’m reminded this morning of the balance/line between using the resources God has given me for sustenance/blessing vs. worshiping or relying on these resources for security. I find myself so often chasing after the idols of this world (money, security, social standing,…). The key isn’t to simply reject the world and run away from all things worldly, rather it is to use what God has given or blessed us with for our needs as well as for His Glory, for His kingdom.

I find that the more I chase after God, the more my worry of what is to come as well as my desire to worship the idols of this world fades.

“God, save me from my desires that are contrary to Your ways, YOU are my God. I give you back the things of this world, teach me to use them to bless people and bring You glory.”