gods at war:  Defeating the Idols that Battle for Your Heart

By:  Kyle Idleman

Genre:  Christian Living

Rating 4.5 out of 5 Stars

“You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3).

About a year and a half ago, I read through Kyle Idleman’s book not a fan, and I LOVED it.  So, when a new book of his showed up on my ereader for only a few bucks, I clicked “buy” right away.  It sat on my virtual shelf for quite sometime.  Months went by.  Then, our Pastor introduced a new Wednesday night Bible study “gods at war.”  I was so excited!  I had found a good excuse to dive into the book!  And what a book!  I have been through two sessions in the study, and it has only enhanced my reading, learning and growing experience.  The book adds depth and detail that the video study doesn’t have the ability to go into within a limited time frame–so I certainly encourage this as a companion to the video goers.  Book lovers out there, take heart, the book reads well–with or without the study. (Although, I encourage dialoguing with a trusted friend or mentor if you are not involved in a group study.)

In each of the four sections, Idleman introduces the reader to a real-life character with a story to tell.  They have all succumbed to idolatry in one form or another.  However, God’s persistent mercy, grace and unfailing love has transformed their brokenness into testimonies of His glory.  Idleman challenges our outdated and cultural definitions of idolatry.  The book is a powerful reminder that anything or anyone can be an idol when placed on throne in our lives–a seat too big for anyone but God to fill.

I was extremely convicted by the truth presented in this book.  I was surprised to find out that idolatry has been and is a huge struggle in my own life.  In almost every chapter, I found a piece of my own sins  staring up at me from its pages.  I’m humbled by God’s patience and passionate pursuit of me.   The “god of achievement” was a particularly unnerving chapter as it has reared its head many times in my life.  I was reminded that God alone is my identity and my salvation.

“The issue of idolatry comes down to one word:  choice.”  Today, I have the choice to serve God first, love Him the most and be wholly filled or to turn from Him to others that will only leave me frustrated, shamed and empty.

” . . . [C]hose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell.  But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

It should come as no surprise that I give this book a high recommendation.  Idleman is an excellent writer–filling his pages with truth, application and whit keeping the reader engaged.  Taking my recommendation one step further, I suggest purchasing the ebook which includes a feature to hyperlinks for videos with  more of the character’s stories.