How can we identify and eliminate modern-day idols in our own lives?

The Scene in 2 Kings 23:14

“He smashed the sacred pillars to pieces, and cut down the Asherah poles, and covered the sites with human bones.” (2 Kings 23:14)

Josiah’s reform was not half-hearted. He located every object competing with the Lord’s supremacy, destroyed it, and made sure it could never rise again. His zeal gives us a template for dealing with our own idols.

---

What Makes Something an Idol Today?

• Anything—good or bad—that receives the allegiance, affection, or trust that belong to God alone (Exodus 20:3–5).

• A false refuge we run to for security, identity, or satisfaction (Psalm 16:4).

• A desire that moves from “I appreciate” to “I must have” (James 4:1–3).

---

Spotting Idols in Everyday Life

Run Josiah’s “search-and-smash” lens over four areas:

• Time: Where do my minutes flow most effortlessly?

• Treasure: What purchases feel non-negotiable? (Matthew 6:21)

• Trust: What do I instinctively lean on when life shakes? (Proverbs 3:5)

• Talk: What topics light me up more than speaking of Christ? (Luke 6:45)

Examples that often surface:

– Career advancement or academic status

– Entertainment and social media

– Romantic relationships

– Children’s success

– Health, fitness, or appearance

– Money and material security (Colossians 3:5; Luke 16:13)

---

Following Josiah’s Pattern: Practical Steps to Destroy Idols

1. Expose the idol’s location

• Ask the Spirit to shine light (Psalm 139:23-24).

• Measure desires against Scripture’s commands and promises.

2. Smash the pillar

• Remove the object or radically limit access if possible (Matthew 5:29-30 shows the principle).

• Delete apps, cancel subscriptions, set filters, change routines—whatever hinders wholehearted devotion.

3. Cut down the Asherah pole

• Replace the idol’s slot with intentional worship: Scripture intake, prayer, fellowship, serving others.

• Fill the schedule holes left behind with God-honoring priorities (Ephesians 5:15-16).

4. Cover the site with “bones”

• Establish accountability so the idol cannot be resurrected (Hebrews 3:13).

• Mark the spot with a testimony of God’s deliverance, reminding yourself and others of His sufficiency.

---

Guarding the Heart for the Long Run

• Stay nourished in truth: “Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11)

• Keep short accounts with God; confess quickly when new rivals appear (1 John 1:9).

• Cultivate gratitude—idolatry thrives where thankfulness is thin (Romans 1:21).

• Walk in the Spirit daily; He alone empowers the ongoing demolition of idols (Galatians 5:16).

“Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Josiah’s radical obedience proves it’s possible. The same Lord who inspired his zeal stands ready to free every heart that yields wholly to Him.