Last week I wrote about the idol of marriage (it’s still getting comments…). Essentially I’m concerned we’ve valued marriage so much in our churches that we’ve left single people to feel like second class citizens.
I’ve had a new thought since then.
I feel those of us who are married often place the relationship we have with our spouses above our relationships with God.
It is still an idol of marriage, but in this case it is more of an idol of our husband or wife.
After Rose got back from her trip in Hawaii she told me she had a strong realization there that she had placed me over God all throughout our marriage. Essentially she said her first love had been trumped by me.
To be honest, I had no idea how to respond. I mean what do you say to that? “I’m sorry.” Or maybe, “no you haven’t.” Or even better, “I’m glad you finally figured that out.”
It was a tough spot. But I quickly realized, I’ve done the same thing.
I too have decided to spend time with Rose instead of God, and not just once. I too have given my devotion and energy to Rose before I even began to think about my relationship to God.
I’m sure a lot of you are no different.
I completely agree with churches who place a big emphasis on the importance of strong marriages, but maybe what we need is churches who place a big emphasis on first seeking the face of God.
