Judges 2:3 offers “a very illuminating description of what idolatry is, and does. Idolatry is making a good aspect of creation—marriage, mountains, business, and so on—into the ultimate source of security, identity, and power. And so false gods are a thorn. When we make something into an idol, it continually makes us miserable. If we fall short of it, or if we might fall short of it, it robs us of joy. If our children are our false god, when their lives are troubled, we will lose our joy; and even when their lives might become troubled (which is all the time!), we will worry, and lose our joy.”1
Judges 2:3 also helps us understand that “idols are snares. They trap us. When we make something into an idol, it binds and enslaves us. We have to have it, so we cannot say no to it. We are addicted to it. This is why many people work too hard, sacrificing family, friendships and health at the altar of career; or give themselves to certain relationships that are destructive; and so on.”2
What thorns and snares are in your life today because of sin? In Christ your enemies have no hold over you today, for he has won the victory over them on our behalf. Take your enemies to Christ and rest in his power to send his Spirit and deliver you from your thorns and snares, and to fight the battle with the spiritual armour described in Ephesians 6:10–20.
3 So now I say, I will not drive them out before you, but they shall become thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare to you.”