Author: Theresa Harvard Johnson

Copyright 2014 Theresa Harvard Johnson

 

Idolatry is one of those sins talked about in the Bible that may seem like an old outdated concept to some or point to a lot of religious activity or legalism. The truth is, it isn’t outdated and that all references to it in scripture still apply today. Idolatry is defined as “image-worship or divine honour paid to any created object.”[1] It is also defined as divine worship given to anyone or anything other than the true living God.[2] Remember, God wants to be our single most important priority. Our immersion should be in HIM, not in the created thing or another person. Anything in life that becomes greater than Him is viewed, in context with Biblical examples, as idolatry.

Copyright 2014 Theresa Harvard Johnson

 

We hear about the blessings of open doors on a pretty consistent basis in the midst of our faith. Who wouldn’t want to hear this? After all, we are taught that open doors lead to prosperity, blessings, greater and so forth. The truth is, many of us have had more “closed doors” in our pursuit of life than we have doors swinging wide open.

I know that is true for me. Most of my life it seems that doors have just SLAMMED in my face — one after the other.

 

But guess what, I have learned that closed doors can be just as much a blessings as the open ones. I had a choice: Become bitter or be empowered by it. I chose and continue to choose the later. We just have to learn how to change our thinking, and perceive the circumstances before us. Holy Spirit often says to me: “Theresa, remember to thank God for closed doors as well as those He has opened.” If I focused on CLOSED DOORS, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be writing this article right now. In reflection, those closed doors have offered me protection, great wisdom, and a  tremendous opportunity to grow in FORGIVENESS, humility, patience and perseverance. Those are elements of our character that don’t often come easy.