Worthy of Worship

February 11, 2019

DAILY READING

Psalm 115
This weekend’s reading: Revelation 3:7-13

FIELD NOTES
It has always impressed me that the people of ancient Israel were so advanced in their theology compared to the civilizations around them. While the Canaanites were worshipping idols made of wood, stone, or precious metals, the people of Israel had come to understand that God is invisible, transcendent, and wholly “other.” God is not a calf, or an eagle, or any other created thing.

Today’s reading, Psalm 115, beautifully expresses Israel’s belief  that “Our God is in the heavens; he does whatever he pleases” and contrasts that with the “nations” who believe in idols of silver and gold who “have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see; They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell…”

Our idols today may not be handcrafted objects, but we still put our trust in things that have no ultimate power — political leaders, success, money, physical strength and attractiveness, a comfortable lifestyle. Let this psalm remind us that God alone is worthy of our worship, and God alone is our “help and our shield.”

QUESTIONS FROM THE FIELD

• In what things — apart from God — are you tempted to put your trust?

FAMILY FIELD TALK
Have you ever seen a photo of an idol? Ask your parents to find a picture online or in a book. Did you know that ancient people worshiped idols and thought they were gods? The people of the Bible learned that God was not contained in an object made by humans and they taught their children to worship the real God who is invisible and all-powerful. Is it hard or easy for you to believe in a God you cannot see?

PRAYER
Almighty God, maker of heaven and earth, we put our trust solely in you. Help us to recognize — and reject — the false gods that tempt us to put our trust in them. Amen.