May 10: All people everywhere should repent

Being then the children of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man. Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead. (Acts 17:29-31 – New American Standard Bible)

This is part of Paul the apostle's preaching to the people in Athens. They were idolaters and the city was filled with shrines and images. Throughout the Bible God's people are forbidden to bow down before any image or picture or idol. The Ten Commandments tell us never to make any image or likeness of God, and never to bow down or worship anything we have made. There is nothing that you can put in your house, hang on your wall, hold in your hand, or hang around your neck that can protect you. God is in heaven and Jesus is seated with Him at His right hand. The Holy Spirit is at work in the world, living in people who have faith in Jesus. Faith in Almighty God and in His glorious Son who has all authority in heaven and on earth is what gives you victory and the help you need in life.

People who are involved in idolatry of any kind are commanded to repent and prepare themselves for the judgment of Jesus. If you have anything that was or is an object of worship in your apartment or house — get rid of it. Don't let demons convince you that these things are works of art or prized souvenirs. God is your protector, and your trust and faith in Him is the only powerful connection you need with Him. You can wear a cross around your neck if you want, but it is the faith in your heart that protects you from Satan. Don't put your trust in anyone or anything other than God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).

Aren't you glad that you know and serve the living God! Our God is so great and wonderful that any statue or picture made to represent Him would be a blasphemous lie. Jesus Christ holds the world, and the universe together by His power!

Remember, an idol doesn’t have to be a stone or wood carving, or an image of God or of some animal. Parents frequently idolize their children, couples idolize their spouses, people idolize money, career, or looks. In fact, few people, in or outside of the Church put God first in their lives. For many, God is someone you talk to for an hour on Sunday, and then forget about for the rest of the week. These people’s lives revolve around idols and are displeasing to God even when they dress up and appear in church on Sunday morning. — God does not accept any other position in our lives other than first place.

Take the warning of Acts 17:31 to heart… all people everywhere should repent.