CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Would love some input. Struggling with whether my photography is an "idol" of sorts. I always try to glorify Him but maybe put too much time in this hobby. I so enjoy the groups I am involved in, HH, reading and learning about photography, competing and shooting. To be honest I probably spend more time with this then studying the Word. Christ is my life and constantly on my mind but then I think maybe I should pack it all away. Especially in times like this. Then I wouldn't be out and about around others and in situations where I could witness. I am asking Jesus to please give me His perspective and I am listening for His answer. Just would appreciate honest thoughts as this is very troubling to me. If He is coming soon and I believe He is, how should we live?

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Floyd Loc: Misplaced Texan in Florence, Alabama

If an answer from Jesus isn't forthcoming maybe what you're doing just needs to be redirected. You can donate many of your pictures to local churches for their use as background for sermon outlines projected onto large screens; develop a program using your pictures to visualize Scriptures (start with the pictures and seek Scripture using those words; i.e., are you aware that Nahum said about clouds that "Clouds are the sand around God's feet"); a picture of a snow leopard (or any other leopard) and the Scripture asking can a leopard change his spots? After our virus concern lowers, volunteer to take pictures of older adults (and children if asked) at small churches with few assets and often with poor attendees as well as at nursing homes (often these folks have outlived all their peers and in too many cases been abandoned by family.

651roy Loc: Black Hills, SD

Just because you are able to articulate your concerns is an answer of sorts.
I have had similar thoughts. There has to be a balance of course. The photography can not be about just the equipment etc (idol).
Being able to share the beauty of nature (Gods second book) helps proclaim his Majesty. Evan sharing the experience of the image capture (the Joy it brings)-it is not some ethereal experience between us and "mother" earth.
Photography keeps bringing me back. Scripture is a source of inspiration (He owns the cattle on a thousand hills) etc. Book of Job is a good look at creation.
It's late after a busy day-hope this makes sense.
Roy

domcomm Loc: Denver, CO

I have learned to ask Him questions, instead of asking people. Sometimes I get an answer right away, sometimes it is later. One time it was several weeks, but He did answer, and His answers are alway right, unlike what I get from people sometimes.

donrosshill Loc: Delaware & Florida

Live like every day is a gift. Even a Blind man can see God through his heart.
Don

Jimmy T Loc: Virginia

Since you are documenting His world and presenting it to others, don't you want to present the best possible examples? You can only do that through study and practice.
While truth exists in moderation, listen to your heart, you will find that balance. You must ask yourself how could He be disappointed when you develop the talents that He has given to you?
Remember, self-doubt will never serve you. Self-doubt will only encourage you to "hide your light under a basket", so let His light shine through you!
Please Stay Safe & Stay Well.
Smile,
JimmyT Sends

d3200prime

The Christians struggle with discipleship, growing in Christ, has always raised doubts for many Christians. You are asking about idols. Firstly, let's clarify what an idol is. An idol is an image or representation of a god used as an object of worship. So, idol worship is anything which we worship instead of God. Who or what do you worship? Answer this question and you will have your answer about whether photography is your idol. BTW: there is no such thing as an "idol of sorts". You either worship God or the idol whatever that may be.

You are troubled about spending so much time in photography and not enough time studying the Word. Go to your pastor or other church leader and offer yourself for service. It may be photography and it may not. The Spirit (Jesus) has spoken to you not anyone in UHH. Listen and obey.

StanRP Loc: Ontario Canada

Hi Sandy, I can find no command in the Bible telling us to ‘Witness’. We are told to BE Witnesses - a totally different thing. Studying “The Word” is good, but it can become ‘religion’ doing it to ‘please God’. There is no command in the Bible to ’Study the Word’. The only reference I can find is where those in Beria searched the Scriptures to check if what they were being taught was true (Acts 17:11). Before Jesus went to the cross, he gave us ONE command - and it was NOT to tell those they met that they are sinners. It was to love others as much as he loved them. (John 13:34-35) Then when they ask the reason why - for the joy in their lives then tell them. ( 1 Peter 3:15 ) Your activity in HH, is a ‘Witness” as is being out and about with others. I suggest that you do an internet search about the early church - that in less than 300 years spread over the whole Roman Empire. They were known because of their love - the name Christian was given them by the public - The Christ Ones -because they loved.(Acts 11:26)
What the world needs now more than ever is people who are NOT full of fear. People like you.

StanRP Loc: Ontario Canada

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Thank you Floyd for your thoughts. I was a caregiver so I know how alone they can be. I had never thought of photos to be used for big screen at church. Good idea that I will have to check into. Thank you. Be safe.

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Yes, you made sense Roy and I appreciate that you stopped after hard day to respond. Balance I believe is what I am seeking with Him first though I know He is always with me. I often ask Him to show me what He sees when shooting. I was a lazy student in school and actual study of the Word gets put aside often. I will read Psalms before bed to clear my thoughts. The Word should come before studying photography. Think a ladies Bible study would be good also. I am encouraged that you have had similar thoughts.

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

You are so right. Go to Him first and that I am learning to do. Now to learn to wait for His leading. Thank you for kind response.

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Yes Don, we are so blessed with each day. So many loving blessings. Take care my Brother.

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

Much wisdom in your words JimmyT and I appreciate you. The self doubt is more likely Holy Spirit letting me know our Father would like to spend more one on one with me in His Word and the photography not a thing to be discarded when used for His purposes. Thank you. Stay well.

CSand Loc: Fayetteville, Georgia

An absolute, God is who I worship and adore. I just don't have the correct time balance. I believe Holy Spirit has indeed brought this to my attention and as He helps me adjust, I believe He will use this pleasure He has given me for His glory. Thank you for responding.