No Other Gods

 Devotion: No Other Gods Before Me

Scripture

Exodus 20:2–3 (KJV)
"I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

Jewish Translation (Artscroll Tanach)
"I am Hashem, your God, Who has taken you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of slavery. You shall not recognize the gods of others in My presence."

Reflection

The First Commandment isn’t just a rule—it’s a declaration. God is not asking for acknowledgment; He is declaring His placeas our Redeemer and Sovereign. Notice that He identifies Himself, not primarily as the Creator, but as the One who delivered. For Israel, this meant release from Egypt; for us, it means freedom from the bondage of sin and death.

Yet, how easily we “recognize other gods” in His presence. Not carved images, perhaps—but the gods of fear, doubt, control, and self-reliance. Every time we allow worry to rule us or question His sufficiency, we whisper by our actions: “This problem is bigger than God.”

When we live in fear, we acknowledge a rival power. When we doubt God’s promises, we elevate our circumstances above His Word. And when we try to control our own lives, we dethrone the One who alone has rightful rule.

Contemplation

Take time to sit with this question: What am I recognizing in God’s presence that doesn’t belong there?

Do your words, thoughts, and actions declare that Hashem is your Redeemer, the one who rescues and sustains? Or do they reveal that other “gods”—such as anxiety, ambition, or even comfort—have crept into sacred space?

The First Commandment is more than a rule—it is a relationship, an invitation to trust, worship, and walk with the One who delivered you. And it begins with unshakable loyalty to His presence and authority.

Questions to Ponder

• In what ways have I doubted God’s power or presence recently?

• What emotions or patterns of thinking are competing with my full trust in God?

• How can I remind myself daily that God alone is in control?

• What needs to be dethroned in my heart so that God reigns without rival?

Prayer

Lord God, Hashem, my Deliverer,
I come before You today, acknowledging that too often I have entertained other “gods” in Your presence. I have allowed fear, doubt, and self-dependence to speak louder than Your promises. Forgive me. Cleanse the temple of my heart from all rivals to Your authority. Teach me to live as if You truly are my Redeemer and King. Let my life reflect unwavering confidence in Your eternal power and faithfulness.
In the name of the Lord Jesus, my Savior and King, Amen.