How can we "remove the foreign gods" in our modern lives today?

◄ How to eliminate modern-day idols? ►

Standing at Shechem Again

Joshua’s charge still rings out:

“Now then,” said Joshua, “put away the foreign gods that are among you and incline your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel.” (Joshua 24:23)

The command is as literal and binding today as it was that day in Shechem; God alone deserves our worship.

Spotting Today’s Foreign Gods

Foreign gods no longer sit on mantelpieces—yet they thrive wherever something rivals the Lord for our trust or delight.

• Possessions and wealth (Matthew 6:24)

• Career, status, or achievement (Luke 12:16-21)

• Entertainment, screen time, and social media (Psalm 101:3)

• Romantic or family relationships elevated above obedience to Christ (Luke 14:26-27)

• Self-image, fitness, or health obsessions (2 Timothy 3:2)

• Political ideologies or national identity (Philippians 3:20)

• Comfort, convenience, and leisure (Amos 6:1)

• Hidden sins—lust, substances, gambling—kept behind closed doors (Colossians 3:5)

Why Idols Endanger the Soul

• They steal affection meant for God alone (Exodus 20:3-5).

• They create double-mindedness that cripples faith (James 1:8).

• They can invite generational patterns of bondage (Ezekiel 14:3-8).

• They provoke God’s jealousy; He will not share His glory (Isaiah 42:8).

Steps to Remove Modern Idols

1. Expose them in the light of Scripture

– Daily Bible intake reveals where loyalty drifts (Hebrews 4:12).

2. Confess and renounce

– Name each idol specifically before the Lord (1 John 1:9).

3. Physically distance yourself

– Delete, discard, or limit whatever continually pulls you away (Matthew 5:29-30).

4. Replace, don’t just remove

– Fill the vacuum with worship, service, and Scripture meditation (Psalm 119:11).

5. Steward rather than serve

– Money, technology, and possessions become tools when placed under Christ’s lordship (1 Corinthians 10:31).

6. Establish accountability

– Invite trusted believers to monitor habits and heart-posture (Hebrews 10:24-25).

7. Practice Sabbath rhythms

– Regular rest from work and media dethrones productivity and pleasure (Mark 2:27).

8. Celebrate God’s faithfulness

– Keep records of answered prayer and providence, turning the heart toward gratitude (Psalm 103:2).

Staying True Daily

• Begin each morning by declaring the Lord’s exclusive claim (Deuteronomy 6:4-5).

• Memorize key passages that confront your specific idols (Psalm 119:9).

• Engage in corporate worship; shared praise strengthens single-hearted devotion (Acts 2:42-47).

• Serve others; self-giving love starves self-worship (Galatians 5:13).

• Regularly evaluate time, money, and thought patterns, asking, “Does this incline my heart to the LORD?” (Romans 12:2).

Passages for Further Reflection