THE GOD WE WANT IS THE GOD WE GET, THE GOD WHO WILL ALSO SHAPE US

 

 We seek for a god we can control, one who will not control and dictate to us. However, the god of our choosing will inevitably control us and conform us into its own image:

 

·       “The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak; they have eyes, but do not see; they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths. Those who make them become like them, so do all who trust in them.” (Psalms 135:15-18 ; ESV)

 

How will these false gods inevitably control us? In our very nature, we become like what it is that we most esteem. If our role model is a drug dealer, we will become like the drug dealer. If he is rich, we will seek to become rich. If our God is one of love and truth, we will model ourselves after Him. As Jesus had warned, if our longings are for this-world “blessings,” this is what we’ll probably get:

 

·       “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” (Matthew 6:5)

 

LESSON: Be careful about what you desire. You will probably get it. But don't be surprised if it comes with an assortment of hidden costs.