MamaArcher's Blog

Whose Strength?

“The human heart is a factory of idols…Everyone of us is, from his mother’s womb, expert in inventing idols.” John Calvin

This is one of my favorite quotes. It seems an odd quote to be a favorite. There is nothing “feel good” about it. The reason I like it though is because it is a constant reminder to me to be ever aware and more vigilant to try an keep my heart in check. Only God can reveal to me the idols I have invented and cleanse me from them.

I have been thinking on a particular subject over the weekend. It is one that I think (maybe incorrectly) many do not even consider let alone ponder. I have in the past seen Satan use even Christians to accomplish his plans. We must be ever vigilant. Sometimes no matter how well intended even as Christians we fall and stumble. Sometimes we even do so with out realizing it. This is why we must always be in prayer that the Lord will reveal those areas of sin in our lives.

Back to the idol factory quote. When most think of inventing idols we think of things such as money, position, jobs, relationships, etc. One big one is SELF. Humanism is rampant in our culture and our churches. Humanism is so ingrained we do not always see it. We always want to see the glimmer of good in mankind. We would rather have a little pride than humility.

What came to me this weekend was that even in clinging to Scripture we can begin to form idols. Before you think I have gone off the deep end, please hear me out. Most know the following verse….

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

This verse is so often quoted and it is used to spur oneself on when they are in a situation that seems a little daunting. One thing I notice is that the verse is often taken out of context. It is used in regard to God’s provision for us and in the context of having already learned to be content. When this verse is quoted it is usually not from the vantage point of contentment or provision.

Another thing I notice is that many approach this with the emphasis on “I”. Here is where that idol factory comes in. Humanism has once again reared its ugly head. I-I-I can do all things…..oh yeah Christ gives me the strength…but I-I-I can do all things. When we focus on the I we are relying on our own strength and not that of the Lord. That is humanism! Rather than focusing on the I and what the I can do and tacking on the end the endorsement of God maybe we should approach this from a more humble position. Maybe we should say I can do nothing good apart from God. We should cry out to the Lord to accomplish the task set before us. We should still be diligent in all we do but rather than encouraging ourselves with the false notion of I CAN maybe we should learn to be content and be encouraged by what GOD CAN! We can do NOTHING apart from Christ. Our focus should be on the one who truly CAN.

If you stuck with me this far please share your thoughts.