What's Wrong With That?

An adulterous woman consumes a man, then wipes her mouth and says, “What’s wrong with that?” [Proverbs 30.20] 

In light of the intensity and frequency of my recent responses about idolatry, Proverbs 30.20 particularly stands out.

Idolatry is spiritual adultery. And yet, in just the few conversations I have had with people regarding idolatry recently, most see no problem with the way debt, insurance, medicine and technology have undeniably consumed mankind. In those conversations, it has not been uncommon to hear the question, "What's wrong with that?" or hear the statement, "I don't see a problem with that."

As long as people feel wealthy, protected, healthy and smart, what could be wrong with it? But, isn't there a cost? Are not interest payments, insurance premiums, prescription medicines, and expensive gadgetry so smart that it's even called "smart" all become oppressive slave masters controlling all but precious few moments of people's lives? The immediate gratification offered by debt, insurance, medicine and technology quickly becomes a relentless financial burden. What's more, people will openly complain about the oppressive nature of debt, insurance, medicine and technology out of one side of their mouth, only to go on to defend them saying, "What's wrong with that?" out of the other.

A man who pays for and has sex with a prostitute, and then goes home to thank his wife better look out! Is it any different to be "serviced" by debt, insurance, medicine and technology and then go and thank God?

An adulterous woman indeed meets a need, but the need she meets is not hers to meet. She is a whore - a substitute for the pure marriage relationship between a man and his wife. What she initiates is a downward spiral not easily corrected for her lover, while the only reason she is doing it is for the money...

Criminal investigations often start by "following the money."

Regardless what the marketing campaigns of debt, insurance, medicine and technology all "say," they are carefully and competitively devised to entice and secure patrons. For the good of the people? No, for the bottom line - they are all in it only for the money, just like an indifferent, money-grubbing whore. All they need to do is entice and enthrall their impatient or fearful patrons just enough to secure their repeat business so their shareholders can be assured of their holdings' profitability. It's just business. "What's wrong with that?"

God's people are quite adept at identifying hookers on the street, but are willfully oblivious of the spiritual hookers they pay dearly every day.

I am not suggesting here that 'getting rid of idols' is, or ever will be, easy. But I am saying getting rid of idols is necessary if we are ever to have a faithful (faith-filled) relationship with God. 

Father, may our eyes be opened. And, most importantly, when Jesus returns, may He find genuine faith in us. So be it.