Show Your Hand

Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?

Ezekiel 14:3 (NLT)

When I was a kid, I watched the reruns of the old television series, Maverick. It was a lighthearted western whose main character was an expert poker player. He often called his opponent's bluff by putting all his cards on the table. When you get a "raw deal" in poker, you pretend it's grand until you have to show your hand.

Idols in our lives are lies we hold dear, not literally in our hands but most assuredly in our hearts. They rob us of lasting satisfaction and joy in life. Sometimes they are the "raw deals" in life that become bigger than God in our eyes. At other times they are the things we turn to for comfort or help rather than putting our trust in God. Whatever form they take, the devil is behind them.

Call its bluff when a thought, ideology, ambition, or desire tries to master your will and emotions. You have only one Master, and His name is Jesus. Once lodged in your heart, an idol will block you from God's goodness. You will pray and receive nothing because you ask with a selfish motive. The Lord will not hear you when you regard iniquity in your heart. Your requests go unmet not because Jesus does not love you but because He does. He will not give you what is perfect, only to see your idol destroy it.

Show your hand to God. Put your life on His table. Get real and repent with Godly sorrow over every idol that clings to you. Sit at His right hand and enjoy His company. Though the stakes are high, the winner takes all, and the devil forever loses.

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