O: God asked Abraham to leave the very nice home and lands he had and head off into parts unknown. He had only God's word that all would be well.
A: God asks each and every one of us to leave the comfort of what we know, abandon all loyalties except to Him, and obey. Obedience to men--no matter how exalted--will never be enough to save, let alone exalt. We have one God: Jehovah. A jealous and just being who requires all of those who would follow Him . . . and yet, a God of astounding mercy, goodness, faithfulness and overwhelming generosity. He gave everything--holding back nothing. How on earth could we expect to pay homage to any other, and yet receive blessing from Him?
He showed us how to love one another, how to truly serve and please Him with our care for His children. But once we go beyond that and give habitual social praise or adulation to another, giving mortals more air time than God, we flirt about in idolatry. No servants of the Most High in scripture have ever accepted praise of men. They have continually rejected such and pointed to God.
P: Father, show me any and all places where I cherish things above You; and show me how you would have me repent of that idolatry. I want my temple cleansed and prepared for whatever You require of me. You are my master, and I just want more of You in my life. Please, Lord, come more into my life. In Jesus' name, amen.
