Today's S.O.A.P (a little longer than normal)

Jeremiah Chapter 10

Scripture: Verse 23 – I know, O Lord, that a man’s life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.

Observation: This chapter is talking about how the people in the land of Jacob have created idols for themselves. At the end of the chapter Jeremiah prays to the Lord and I felt verse 23 was very profound.

Application: Verse 23 sums up what could be an idol in our culture today which is anything that causes a man to direct his own steps. I think often times we are our own idol. We feel we have the power to accomplish things on our own merit without the help of God. We glorify ourselves when things go well for us. We honor ourselves when we do something “noble” for someone else. We exalt ourselves because of our intelligence, work ethic, money we've made, houses we live in, athletic abilities, our children (at times) and any number of other things. If we are seeking things for our own benefit and glory then aren’t we really saying that our ways are better than God’s ways? In doing that we are elevating ourselves to God status and in essence worshipping ourselves.

Prayer: Lord, how many times have I tried to do things on my own? How many times have I glorified myself? How many times have I wallowed in my own self-pity because things didn’t go the way “I” wanted them to go? Why is it so hard to realize that I am not in control? I cannot direct my steps and have all things turn out for good. Lord, you are the creator of all things. Nothing happens on earth or above that is out of your control. I fall before you and praise your name. All that I need and desire is in you. Let my heart not wander and put more value on myself than what is due. You created me to glorify you on earth and in heaven when I die. Help me not fall into this carnal world of self-empowerment. The people of ancient times felt the idols they made could help them and the people of modern times think they have everything within themselves they need to help themselves. How foolish we are to think that we alone can supply all our needs? Even though I live in a culture that seeks to glorify oneself, let those ideas be blaspheme to my soul. Shield my heart and ears from the slightest notion that it is even possible. I glorify you alone, I praise you alone, I worship you alone because you alone are worthy of that praise and glory. Amen.