Empty-handed

Judges 18:1-31

31 They continued to use the idol Micah had made, all the time the house of God was in Shiloh.

The interesting story in the events of a battle of Dan begins with a man named Micah living in a hill country of Ephraim. He stole silver from mom, who cursed the thief without knowing that he was her own son, so Micah confessed his sin. However, his mom blessed him and made a silver idol for her son with what was taken and was put in his house, where already was a shrine and other household gods. The more intriguing thing is that she made one of her sons as a priest just for her family.

While reading this story, I wonder how they could say they believed God, although their life seemed filled with idolatry and there were not any laws of God. The Micah's family had nothing to do except watch the unfairness and the theft from Dan tribe who looked stronger than them, ending up with the loss of the idol and the priest they had employed for themselves. Finally, they were empty-handed, losing everything, including God, the real protector and safety giver as well.

What is installed in my house, as a protector or safety giver for my family? Are there any idols or is there only God? Or both? I will have to check around my house and my children as there is a possibility of making an idol for my beloved children like Micah's mother, who spoiled her sons, not knowing the Word of God and His presence in her house, either.

Joshua 1: 8

Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written on it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.