You shall have no other gods before Me. Exodus 20:3 (AMP)
Idolatry isn’t really about the idol. It’s a heart issue.
Most of us don’t think about idolatry too often, but it affects us more often than we think. If you’re constantly thinking and worrying about something or someone, you may have begun to idolize that thing or person. This doesn’t mean you worship it, but if it’s on your mind constantly and it has begun to take precedence over your relationship with God, it might be growing into an idol (substitute god) in your heart.
Our relationships are precious, but what happens if they start to take up more room than Jesus? For example, maybe you focus on your spouse because you feel like you need their attention, love or approval. Maybe you live in fear as a “people-pleaser,” bending over backward to keep your kids happy. Or perhaps you’re focused on finding “the one,” convinced that romance would change your world. Before you know it, those relationships are in first place, ahead of Christ.
Relationships are incredibly important, and require thought, time and good communication. It’s important that we keep working at them but depending on others for happiness or validation will leave us feeling frustrated. Placing earthly relationships at the centre of our lives ahead of building one with God will always lead to disappointment.
Remember: Jesus is your source of joy, peace and agape love. When you spend time building your relationship with God and you find your worth in Him, the urge to value others ahead of Him will fade.
God wants first place in your heart because only He is able to fill your every need. Nothing on earth holds more value!