During my national service training in Taiwan, I witnessed a long religious procession. People loudly praised their deities and even evil spirits. Many wore elaborate yet terrifying costumes. and the whole scene was so frightening that I just wanted to flee immediately. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9avDt8ahgTA)

Recently, I watched a testimony on YouTube from a member of a mega church. He shared that he had been “scammed” by his pastor for years. The "Jesus" preached by that pastor was completely different from the Jesus revealed in the Bible. It was only after he carefully read the Scriptures that he realized he had been following not the living Christ but an idol created to serve human ambition—much like the golden calf in Moses' time. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOWtRT4L3to)

Psalm 115 reminds us: "Our God is in the heavens; He does all that He pleases" (v. 3). Idols are man-made, lifeless, and powerless; they cannot see, hear, speak, or walk (vv. 4–8). Our God, however, is real, sovereign, and living. We are created in God’s image, but idols are fashioned according to human desires. Those who rely on idols will, like their idols, become lifeless and hopeless.

In ancient times, people created idols out of fear of supernatural forces. Today, idols may take different forms: success, fame, or even a distorted image of “Jesus.” Yet regardless of their form, idols are merely projections of the human heart. They cannot bring life, truth, or security; instead, they can lead people into falsehood and even destruction. Only the living God is worthy of our wholehearted trust and worship.

Reflection

"Where is our God?" This is a crucial question. He is not an idol made by human hands, nor an image fabricated by human imagination. Should we rely on powerless idols, or trust in the true God who reigns in heaven? Psalm 115 calls us to examine our hearts, discern truth from falsehood, and worship the living God alone. He is faithful and powerful, and He blesses all who trust in and fear Him (vv. 9–14).

Prayer

Dear Father, forgive us for ever relying on idols or ourselves. Help us to trust You wholeheartedly, worship You, and walk daily in Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.