gods at war

(I added the sticker.)   :)

We are doing a study of the book "gods at war" by Kyle Idleman on Wednesday nights at church this summer.  We began tonight. Different ladies will be leading each week, but tonight was my turn.  The book is excellent and convicting.  (Aren't all things most excellent also most convicting?)
The title says it all.  These gods are at war for our affections and attention and devotion.  They never cease begging for it. They are beautiful and alluring, and ugly and distasteful - all at the same time.  We pursue money, success, peace, popularity, possessions, friendships, and intimate relationships.  It isn't that any of those things are wrong on their own, but God made us to be worshipers.
It may not be that we intend on worshiping someone or something else rather than God, but when we put more energy, time, love, and emotion into anything other than our Creator...if He and His design for us is not the source of our joy, we better do some self examinating.  Little gods don't become little gods overnight...but the infatuation grows until God is dethroned and something else in enthroned.
We are born worshipers...and if we are not exalting our LORD God, another will creep in.  John Calvin said that our hearts are idol factories.  I know mine is.  The war within never ends. Sigh.
I encourage you to read the book...along with The Book.  God shares His place with no one.  No one.