THE GOD WE CHOOSE by R. F. Cottrill

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 8, 1876

THE GOD WE CHOOSE.

By R. F. Cottrill

When Israel chose the service of the true God, he delivered them from their enemies and caused them to prosper; but when they forsook his commandments and served other gods, he said he would deliver them no more. Said he, “Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation.” Judges 10:14.

The ancient form of idolatry may not appear among us; yet many prefer other gods to the Lord. Gold may be a god, though not moulded in the shape of ancient idols. Many choose wealth as their god; and give their whole lives to this object. Covetousness is idolatry. Farms, merchandise, cattle, horses, and even swine, may be first in our hearts. Fine houses, costly furniture, or a splendid equipage, may be the supreme object of our devotion. Fashion and fame and the applause of men may be exalted in the mind above all that is called God, and worshiped with a hearty devotion. And not the least exalted and adored is pride of self. Self is idolized; our own will and way, desires, appetites and passions, are first of all in esteem.

But however much the gods of this world may be esteemed, the time of tribulation is coming, from which they will fail to deliver us. If we turn now to the living and true God, we shall have a shelter in the day of wrath; but if not, his language to us will be, “Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen.” But how vain the cry! Neither silver nor gold nor any earthly god shall be able to deliver in that day. Have you chosen any of these gods? Be persuaded to abandon them at once, and serve your Creator, and him only. He can deliver; but pride and passion, and all the world, will prove vain and worthless; they cannot deliver. R. F. COTTRILL.