The Fifth Woe (Hab 2:18-19)

This last woe is Habakkuk's commentary against idolatry.

1. Definition of an "idol." An idol is any image, structure, entertainment, thought system or person (other than God) that you trust in to teach, guide or comfort you. Examples: food, sports, sex, good works, politics, etc.
2. Determination of an idol. How do you know if something or someone has become an idol? Idols consume your valuables. Your most valuable assets are time, attention, energy, money, family and spirit. God is no longer priority one.
3. Deception of an idol. Idols claim to live, but they're dead. They promise life and fulness, but result in decay and emptiness. Underneath the glitter and flash are disappointment and the ordinary. (After all, every idol is man-made.) See also Hab 1:16.
4. Destruction of an idol. Admit that such-and-such has become an idol. Ask God's forgiveness. Change: take down the statue and smash the image. Now give God the time, attention, energy and money you once gave the idol.