The original audience for the book of Genesis was the Israelites, who were on their way to the Promised Land. After living so long among the gods of the Egyptians and foreigners, the people needed to remember who the God of lsrael was. He – not the gods of the Egyptians, Canaanites or Philistines – was the Creator of everything.

We are no different than the Israelites. Though we may not be tempted to bow down to wooden statues, our hearts are just as likely to seek satisfaction in things other than God. We ask questions such as:

• Is God real? Does He love me? Is He worth it?
• What connection did the author make between praising God and the fact that God created all things?

God owes His existence to no one and needs nothing, yet He decided to create everything, including you. The truth of this overwhelming love should give you the strength and desire to reject any idols that threaten your heart.