The Disturbing Gospel: Day One
Day 1: When Good Things Become Ultimate Things
Devotional
We all have things we treasure deeply—our careers, relationships, achievements, or even our reputation. These aren't necessarily bad things; in fact, they're often very good things that God has given us to enjoy. But somewhere along the way, we can cross an invisible line where these good gifts become our ultimate source of security and identity. Think about the silversmith Demetrius in Ephesus. His craft wasn't evil—creating beautiful objects required skill and artistry. But when Paul's message threatened his livelihood, Demetrius revealed what had become ultimate in his heart. His business wasn't just how he made money; it had become his god. The same thing happens to us today. A promotion at work becomes not just a blessing but our entire sense of worth. A relationship becomes not just a gift but our whole reason for living. Our children's success becomes not just a joy but our identity as parents. When good things become ultimate things, we've entered the territory of idolatry. The beautiful truth is that recognizing our idols isn't meant to shame us—it's meant to free us. God wants to give us something better than the anxiety and pressure that comes from making finite things carry infinite weight. He wants to be our ultimate treasure, the one thing that can never be taken away, never disappoint, and never leave us empty. Today, ask God to gently reveal where you might be placing ultimate trust in good things rather than in Him. This isn't about giving up everything you love, but about putting things in their proper place so you can truly enjoy them as gifts rather than gods.
“Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
- Psalm 46:10
Reflection Question
What good thing in your life would cause you to panic or feel like your world was falling apart if it were suddenly taken away?
“Idolatry is not just doing bad things.
Idolatry is taking good things and making them ultimate things.”
- Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Father, help me to see where I've made good things into ultimate things. Give me the courage to examine my heart honestly and the grace to find my ultimate security in You alone. Show me how to enjoy Your gifts without worshipping them. Amen.