In what ways can we identify and remove modern "pillars" in our lives? The Ancient Command: Deuteronomy 16:22 “You are not to set up for yourselves a sacred pillar, which the LORD your God hates.” What Are “Pillars” Today? • Physical pillars in pagan worship symbolized allegiance, trust, and identity apart from God. • Modern pillars are anything—material, relational, ideological, or emotional—that quietly receives the devotion, security, and honor God alone deserves (Exodus 20:3–5; 1 John 5:21). • They may be good things turned ultimate: career, comfort, entertainment, relationships, technology, possessions, personal image, or even ministry success. Spotting Hidden Pillars • Time Audit – Where do my discretionary hours naturally flow? (Ephesians 5:15–16) • Thought Patterns – What do I daydream about, fear losing, or instantly defend? (Matthew 6:21) • Wallet Trail – How do my spending and giving habits reveal my affections? (Proverbs 3:9) • Emotional Reactions – What triggers disproportionate anger, anxiety, or despair when threatened? (Jonah 4:7–9) • Compromise Indicators – Where do I bend biblical convictions to protect something? (Matthew 6:24) Steps to Topple Them 1. Confess Clearly • Name the pillar before God (1 John 1:9). 2. Replace, Don’t Just Remove • Fill the vacuum with worship, Scripture, and service—“Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:1–2). 3. Establish Guardrails • Practical limits: screen time caps, budget lines, accountability partners (Proverbs 27:17). 4. Celebrate God’s Supremacy • Regularly rehearse His character and past faithfulness (Psalm 103:1–5). 5. Persist in Community • Invite believers to speak truth when old pillars try to rise again (Hebrews 10:24–25). Living Pillar-Free • Freedom: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). • Witness: A life unattached to idols showcases Christ’s sufficiency (Philippians 3:7–8). • Joy: True satisfaction flourishes when only God holds center place (Psalm 16:11). |
    |