"They would not listen, however, but persisted in their former practices. Even while these people were worshipping the Lord, they were serving their idols. To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their ancestors did."
2 Kings 17:40-41

One thing I think we can all say we have in common with the Israelites is our sinful inclination to serve idols. Hopefully we don't have any golden calves in our backyard, but how often do we allow other things in our lives to take precedence over God?

Maybe it's our phone or TV that gets more attention than our Bible.
Maybe it's our career that becomes more important than Sunday morning church.
Maybe it's other people that we put before our relationship with God.

It is true that even worshippers of God can fall prey to serving idols.

However, what really struck me most about this verse was this: "To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their ancestors did."

We are being watched by those around us, whether we are a parent or not. What we prioritize and put first will most surely be seen and emulated by those near and dear to us.

So the question arises for each of us - are there idols in our own lives that we need to rid ourselves of? Not only for the sake of our spiritual health, but the spiritual health of the generations that will follow us?

May we then remember this:

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Colossians 3:1-2

- Autumn