How can we prioritize God over worldly pleasures, as warned in Ezekiel 23:41? Seeing the Warning in Ezekiel 23:41 “You sat on a magnificent couch with a table spread before it, on which you had set My incense and My oil.” (Ezekiel 23:41) - God’s own gifts—“My incense” and “My oil”—were laid out to fuel self-indulgence. - The vivid image exposes spiritual adultery: enjoying comfort, status, and sensuality while sidelining covenant loyalty. Why the Warning Still Matters - Worldly pleasures still tempt us to repurpose God’s blessings for personal gratification. - Jesus: “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24) - John: “Do not love the world or anything in the world… The world is passing away along with its desires.” (1 John 2:15-17) Signs We’re Drifting Toward Worldliness - Leisure, scrolling, or binge-watching excite us more than worship or fellowship. - Budgets favor luxury while generosity lags. - Moral lines blur to fit culture rather than Scripture. - Prayer feels optional; entertainment feels essential. - Discontent grows, driving the next purchase or experience. Steps to Prioritize God 1. Re-center the heart - Begin each day in Scripture; let God set the agenda (Psalm 119:97). - Memorize verses that redirect desire—Matthew 6:33; Colossians 3:1-3. 2. Simplify the schedule - Block out non-negotiable time for worship, church, and service before adding leisure. - Fast periodically from media or possessions to reveal hidden dependencies. 3. Redirect resources - Tithe first; give above and beyond as the Spirit leads (Proverbs 3:9). - Choose needs over wants; share surplus. 4. Renew the mind - Filter input through Philippians 4:8, selecting content that honors Christ. - Swap idle scrolling for purposeful study or edifying conversation. 5. Seek accountable community - Invite trusted believers to call out drift; confess and pray together (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Celebrate victories that refocus affections on God. 6. Worship through the body - Present yourselves “as living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1-2). - Guard what eyes see and minds ponder, remembering they belong to the Lord. Scriptures to Keep Close - Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” - Colossians 3:1-3 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things…” - Psalm 16:11 – “You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.” - Proverbs 4:23 – “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” Post, memorize, and recite these verses so they confront competing desires daily. Encouragement for the Journey - God redirects us from fleeting thrills to “eternal pleasures” found only in Him. - Each small act of obedience loosens the world’s grip and deepens delight in Christ. - When failure comes, repent quickly; the cross secures cleansing and a fresh start. - Keep pressing on, knowing “whoever does the will of God remains forever.” (1 John 2:17) |
    |