“They followed worthless idols and themselves became worthless.” (2 Kings 17:15)

We humans have a remarkable propensity to put ourselves at the disposal of a perceived ultimate value. This explains persons who tie themselves to trees in the forest to prevent logging, those who spend all their means and energy on their motor car, others who give themselves over to getting as much sensual pleasure out of their bodies as they can before it gets too old for anything. The problem with this is that humans are in every way greater than any other thing, creature or ideal in the universe. To become the servant of anything less amazing than me is to start on a road to debasement and self-diminishment. To adore God and live to please him—that refines and dignifies a man.