In what ways can we "break down their pillars" in our spiritual lives? Opening Scripture “Rather, you must tear down their altars, smash their sacred stones, and chop down their Asherah poles.” – Exodus 34:13 Understanding “Pillars” Then and Now • In Israel’s day, “pillars” were literal stone monuments to false gods—visible, tangible declarations of allegiance to something other than the LORD. • Today, while we rarely face carved stones on street corners, we encounter cultural and personal “pillars” that compete for the loyalty Jesus alone deserves. • God’s command remains: do not tolerate rival objects of worship (1 John 5:21; Matthew 6:24). Modern Pillars That Must Fall • Entertainment that normalizes sin (Psalm 101:3) • Habits that dull spiritual hunger—excessive scrolling, binge‐watching, unhealthy eating or drinking • Relationships that steer us away from obedience (1 Corinthians 15:33) • Secret sins cherished in the heart—greed, lust, bitterness (Colossians 3:5) • Philosophies that contradict Scripture—relativism, materialism, self-exaltation (Colossians 2:8) Practical Steps to Demolish Idolatrous Pillars 1. Identify the structure • Ask, “What consistently steals my affection, time, and resources from Christ?” 2. Confess and renounce • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” (1 John 1:9). 3. Remove access points • Uninstall apps, cancel subscriptions, create distance from tempting environments (Matthew 5:29-30). 4. Replace with worship • Fill the newly cleared space with Scripture, prayer, fellowship, and service (Psalm 119:9-11; Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Guard the ground • “Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). 6. Enlist accountability • “Carry one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). Promises On The Other Side Of Demolition • Fresh intimacy with the Lord (James 4:8) • Greater freedom and joy (John 8:36) • Clearer witness to a watching world (Matthew 5:16) • Protection from future compromise (Proverbs 4:23) Encouragement For The Journey Breaking down pillars is ongoing, not one-and-done. Yet every surrendered stone becomes a testimony that Jesus is better, stronger, and worthy of our whole hearts. |
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