Post by: Jono Lin
In contemporary Christian circles, the term ‘idolatry’ is often used to only describe inanimate objects that are listed in scripture. We usually discuss the plight of the Israelites and struggle to relate to the fervor of physical idol worship. However, it is not too difficult draw applicable meaning for our own lives. There are vast amounts of resources on the internet where idolatry is discussed further in depth, but I wanted to focus on specific areas where I feel the Millennial Generation is typically consumed. Through my own trials and fights against the threat of idolatry, I was able to find solace in God’s saving grace (1 Timothy 1:15). We will be covering a few common idols in this 3 part series.
Relationships.
Coincidentally, Valentine’s day just recently passed by. Social media feeds were filled with articles and posts on how to find love. For those of us in a romantic relationship, it’s awesome! We can bask in the celebration. For singles out there, we’re either full of bitterness or attempting to use pets and inanimate objects as a substitute for a missing partner. For those of us who have been emotionally scarred by an abusive relationship, this weekend is certainly a reminder of all those events which led to the disheartening breakup.
No matter what category you fall under, it is absolutely simple to idolize your partner or lack of a partner. While your friends and family members post daily pictures of their significant others and their kids, you might just be sitting there wondering when it will be your turn. Next year you’ll be a year older and the panic level may very well go up a notch. Some of us might have given up altogether and blame the opposite sex for our lack of a romantic relationship. Some of us in a relationship may blame our partners for the problems in our relationship. Some of us may compare our current partner to our previous partner(s). Some of us might keep lists of desires, faults, or everything that has happened to us in the romantic battle arena. Some of us may then project the impossible standards developed from these lists onto our partners or potential partners and then complain when we do or don’t find somebody!
My friends, do you see the insanity presented? Our idolization of relationships has rooted itself so deeply within our hearts that our very livelihoods are affected by it. Whether we’re single or dating, it’s often our own fault that we are experiencing the troubles in our life and we refuse to compromise. For all the singles out there, why do you feel entitled to guys or girls saying “yes” when you ask them out on a date? Why does your singleness put such a heavy burden on your heart that it causes you to feel bitter towards those who are in a relationship? If you call yourself a Christian but then act like a devil when you’re rejected by someone or when something goes wrong in your relationship, what does that say about your faith? Everyone has experienced searing pain and loss, but we have also been shown immeasurable grace. This is all the more reason to extend generosity and kindness towards others. The standard that we should all strive for is the character of Jesus Christ, who paid the ultimate cost because of His love for you and me (John 3:16).
Finding and wanting love are not inherently evil. I encourage dating and the pursuit of a significant other. I highly encourage praying to be like Christ during pursuit and during a relationship. However, if your pursuit or reality of a partner overtakes your love for Christ, then that is when your desire becomes idolatry. But be encouraged, as Jesus promised to take care of us and ultimately He gave Himself for us! Finding rest in the love of Christ and truly valuing how much He personally loves you is the most effective way of combating idolatry, whether single or married (Matthew 11:28). Jesus promised to provide and believe me, He will (Hebrews 13:5).
Do you know Him today?
In Humility,
Jono Lin
Jono Lin's mission in life is to share that there's a God who has not stopped loving people, even before their conception at birth! He has served in churches in various capacities with wide variety of ethnicities, and desires to bring biblical truth to contemporary culture. He believes that a strong witness and genuine relationships are absolutely essential in order to really love others. He believes that there is more to life than meets the eye and desires that all people come to know Jesus Christ.