The Futility of Idols

     Moses’ final words provided specific details of the idolatry that Israel would be involved with when they entered and prospered in their Promised Land.  They would mingle with the remnants of the gentiles that had not been deposed by Joshua.  The result would be in essence, multiculturalism.  Such had been specifically warned against and forbidden.

     Recall the Israelites had been instructed that there would be but one law for the Israelites and the strangers (aliens) remaining in the land.

     God’s forewarning soon became reality.

     “But Jeshurun (Israel) grew fat and kicked…Then he forsook God who made him, and scornfully esteemed the Rock of his salvation.”  Deuteronomy 32:15

     Thus, when Israel had received the gifts provided by God (the Rock of their deliverance and victory) and prospered greatly in their new land, they became proud and set their Provider aside.  They claimed full credit for their success. 

     Notice how their actions coincided with an earlier warning given during their forty years in the wilderness.

     “…when the LORD your God brings you into the land of which He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob…when you have eaten and are full – then beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.”  Deuteronomy 6:10-12

     Moses stressed the fact that Israel had forgotten, i.e. willfully set aside, the source of their success.

     “Of the Rock who begot you, you are unmindful, and have forgotten the God who fathered you.”  Deuteronomy 32:18

     Note the similarity of Israel’s behavior and that of America.

     America was once under the rule of another nation and was set free.  America now touts that she is the most exceptional nation in the ‘world’ due to her ingenuity and economic prowess. 

     Now that America is experiencing economic challenges, and facing threats from ‘those of the East,’ is seeking God for deliverance her first priority?  Or is America depending on her fiscal genius and international coalitions to deliver her from her challenges and threats?

     What solutions are being offered by those seeking the office of president during the present political chaos?

     Moses addressed similar issues and voiced God’s response to Israel’s challenges.

     “He will say, ‘Where are their gods, the rock in which they sought refuge? ...Let them rise and help you, and be your refuge.’”  Deuteronomy 32:37-38

     God virtually mocks the idolaters by telling them to turn to their self-made idols in their time of troubles to deliver them from adversity. 

     The Hebrew for ‘rock’ means ‘that in which they have placed their trust,’ i.e. their perceived refuge, strength, and deliverer.

     Does America seek the Rock, or their many rocks?  Does America depend on missile defense systems to protect herself from the likes of North Korea or Iran?  Does America depend on UN Sanctions to control the aggression of hostile nations?  Does America strive for internal peace by passing legislation that protects those engaged in abominable practices?  Does America depend on naïve diplomacy with nations hostile to God to achieve pseudo peace?

     Does America participate in multiculturalism to win the approval of other nations?  Perhaps America should consult the Bible or simply ask Europe how that strategy is working.

    Current presidential aspirants contend that the first step in national success is to have a robust and growing economy.  That is the accepted ‘rock’ for America to remain the most exceptional nation in the world.

     God reveals the naiveté of such thinking.

     “Now see that I, even I, am He, and there is no God besides Me…Nor is there any who can deliver from My hand.”  Deuteronomy 32:39

     God is the ‘Rock’ and the only power to deliver victory from enemies.  His plan for the nations and His purpose for His chosen will stand.

     Many are beginning to think that Franklin Graham is right by disassociating himself from any political faction and turning directly to God for America’s future.

     Of course he’s right.

     We always need to keep in mind Paul’s admonition to the church when he stated that those things that happened to Israel, especially during their receiving the law prior to entering the Promised Land, serve as examples for us in this current age.

     Share your thoughts walt.thrun@gmail.com