The Lodestar

Living amidst idol worshippers was a challenge for the people of Israel, who did not have their God represented in any physical form. The Ten Commandments demanded, "You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth” (Exod 20:4).

The idol worshippers demanded proof of Israel’s God in tangible form: “Where is your God?” However, the psalmist replies that the God he worships is far beyond the range of human visibility, “in the heavens,” but is perceptible in human life experience.

The idols have only a passive presence, though they are tangible. They have eyes that cannot see, mouths that cannot speak, and ears that cannot hear (Psalm 115:4—8). However, his God can be experienced, though he is invisible.

First, the true living God is the protector and helper of his people (Psalm 115:9—11). His worshippers perceive him on their side through their experience of his salvation and security.

Second, he is visible in the provisions for his people. He is the source of all blessings that they have in their life (Psa 115:12—15). The quality of life the Lord has granted us is evidence of his active existence.

Third, the worship of his people on earth to the God in heaven proves that a true, loving, and caring God exists even though he has no form (Psalms 115:16—18).

So, we declare to the world that we worship the true living God by testifying that all we are and have proceeded from him. The life that we live is evidence of his existence. When we fail to acknowledge God’s ways, we fail to testify that we serve a living God.

Let your daily life reflect the reality of the living God. Take a moment to thank God for his protection and blessings, and look for concrete ways to share your testimony—through words and actions—with someone who needs to see faith lived out.

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