This chapter is a “Markan sandwich” – a literary device which essentially has “theme a”, “theme b”, then “theme a” again, with “theme b” being of great importance and informing the overarching “theme a”.
“Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Is there a God besides me? There is no Rock; I know not any.’ The carpenter… cuts down cedars… He takes a part of it and warms himself; he kindles a fire and bakes bread. Also he… makes it an idol and falls down before it. No one considers, nor is there knowledge or discernment to say, ‘Half of it I burned in the fire; I also baked bread on its coals; I roasted meat and have eaten. And shall I make the rest of it an abomination? Shall I fall down before a block of wood?’ ” (v6a, 8b, 13-15, 19 abr)
The central theme of this chapter is idolatry, which informs the overarching theme of God reminding His people of who He is, and what He has done for them. Why do we need reminding? Because we have broken the first commandment: ‘He is the Lord our God, and we shall have no other gods before Him’.
You might think to yourself “but I don’t have any ‘idols’ in my life”, and maybe you’re right. Scripture defines an idol as anything that becomes more important to us than God, taking His deserved place of honor in our lives. I suggest that this is one of the most common sin traps into which we can fall. It happens so easily, and so unintentionally, that we don’t even realize it (I’m repeatedly guilty of this).
I encourage us to engage with God and His Holy Spirit to help us discern if we have any ‘idols’ in our lives right now. Maybe we’re prioritizing resources (eg. time, money, energy) on something that has taken God’s place in our lives and we just haven’t realized it yet. Most of these things/people are not immoral on their own – we just immorally prioritize them over obeying God.
Father God, our One True Lord, You alone are worthy of our obedience and praise. Please guide us through Your Spirit, and help us discern any areas in our lives which are not fully prioritized under You. May we learn to pursue goals and maintain good relationships in partnership with You, and not lose sight of You along the way. We ask for an outpouring of Your guidance, and constant reminders to keep our eyes on You, as we gradually learn Your priorities. In Jesus’ holy name we praise You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training