Message: “The god of Pleasure” from Brian Richardson

The gods of pleasure often begin as good gifts from the Lord God--food, entertainment, sex, relaxation, etc. These are good things God gave us out of his love, but too often we find ourselves living for these pleasures. They become what motivates us to get out of bed in the morning and go to work. They're what our relationships, our time, and our money often revolve around. Without even realizing it, we find that we're worshiping the gods of pleasure instead of the God who has given us such gifts. Instead of having a throne in our hearts where God reigns, we often have a loveseat, where God is expected to share the space with something--or someone--else. The gods of pleasure are a cheap imitation for what the Lord God has for us. They are at war within us, taking everything and giving nothing. Psalm 37:4 "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Scripture References: 1 Kings 18:16-39, Exodus 34:14, 1 Kings 17:1, Psalms 106:19-21, Psalms 37:4

Related Topics: Idolatry | More Messages from Brian Richardson | Download Audio

From Series: "Gods at War"

Every day they battle for our attention, our time, our resources, our families. Some are easily recognized, others are more subtle as we allow them into our lives. They feed off our true desires, our hunger and wants. We think they bring fulfillment and purpose, but before long they take control, grip us tightly, and convince us that they belong. We find ourselves at war with these gods…surrendering ourselves to the idols of food, sex, money, success, entertainment, comfort, technology, and so much more. As we engage these gods at war, we will learn to recognize the seats of honor we have given the false gods in our lives, creating an opportunity to turn our hearts back to the one God who loves us unconditionally, the one who gives us freedom, the only one that deserves our hearts.

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