Tim Keller on Money, Wealth, & GenerosityEsimerkki

“When anything in life is an absolute requirement for your happiness and self-worth, it is essentially an ‘idol,’ something you are actually worshiping.”

-Tim Keller

I don't know about you, but I find it difficult to read this quote and not self-assess my life. This simple, but profound, statement gives us a clear lens through which we can evaluate our priorities and affections.

We all have ambitions and aspirations, which can be good. But when these ambitions start to control us, when our happiness and sense of self-worth become tied to them, they become 'idols.' Whether these idols take the shape of success, wealth, acclaim, or even relationships, they can lead us to trouble.

Our identity should never be rooted in worldly accomplishments, material things, or anything else, but in our relationship with Christ. True joy and fulfillment are found in Christ alone.

Today, let's take an honest look at areas where our happiness or self-worth might depend on anything other than Jesus. Let's turn away from these idols and fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

This journey may not be easy, but each step we take away from idolatry is a step towards deeper communion with Jesus. Let's embark on this journey together, seeking Christ above all else, one day at a time.