The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.
Psalms 135:15-18 NIV
Many people believe spiritual death comes from worshipping idols. Yet this passage shows something deeper—a tragic cycle. Spiritual blindness and deafness lead people to trust lifeless idols. That idolatry then deepens their numbness towards God.
When someone sees clearly, they will not choose what harms them. But when perception is clouded, poor judgement follows. Spiritual dullness produces idolatrous choices. Only a heart restored by God can see clearly enough to turn from them.
The psalmist describes idols with mute mouths, blind eyes, and deaf ears. Yet idolatry today is far more than carved images. Anything we place above God can become an idol—career, family, relationships, money, success, reputation, comfort, or pleasure (see The Passion Translation). These things may be good, but when they hold first place in our hearts, they compete with our devotion to God.
Idolatry changes us. It demands the trust, reverence, and affection we owe to God. The more we rely on an idol as if it can save or satisfy us, the more unresponsive we grow—dull to God’s presence, holiness, and life itself. Psalm 135:18 in the Amplified Bible puts it clearly: “Those who make [idols] are like them; so is everyone who trusts in and relies on them.” Lifeless idols make lifeless worshippers.
Spiritual insensitivity often comes before idol worship. It drives people towards idols, and the habit of worshipping them hardens that deadness even more.
The solution is not to pressure an idol-worshipper to stop. The real need is spiritual awakening—a new life that restores sight and hearing. When God brings a heart to life, that person sees the emptiness of idols and turns away.
Those who worship the living God come alive. As we continue to worship Him in spirit and truth, His life transforms us. We become like what we behold, and the more we behold His glory, the more His power and holiness shine through us.
Living It Out
Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything that has taken God’s place in your life. Surrender it as an act of love and trust. Each day, choose to behold God through His Word, worship, and obedience. Remember—what you gaze upon will shape your heart.