Day 138 From Idols to Blessings: Reflections on Psalm 115

From Idols to Blessings

by Torrie Slaughter

Hello, dear friends,

Psalm 115 is a stirring and needed reminder in today’s noisy world. As culture entices us to chase influence, image, and control, this psalm refocuses our attention and affections—away from idols and back to the living God.

Let’s walk through its truths together and allow our hearts to be both humbled and lifted.

🙌🏽 Not to Us, But to Your Name

“Not to us, Lord, not to us but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 115:1)

This opening line is more than poetic—it’s foundational. It redirects our glory-seeking hearts to the One who deserves it all. In a world fueled by self-promotion and performance, this verse calls us to lay it all down and say:

“God, only You get the credit. You’re the reason we’re here.”

It’s not about what we’ve done.
It’s about who God is—faithful, steadfast, and loving.

🪙 The Futility of Idols

Psalm 115 then contrasts the living God with man-made idols:

“They have mouths, but cannot speak… eyes, but cannot see… Those who make them will be like them.”(vv. 5–8)

These idols—crafted from silver and gold—look impressive but lack power.
They’re lifeless. Powerless. Useless.

Yet how easily we build our own modern versions:

• The idol of control

• The idol of appearance

• The idol of success

• The idol of comfort

🔥 Reflection: Anything we trust more than God to give us identity, peace, or purpose is an idol. And here’s the hard truth:

“Those who make them will be like them.”
The more we trust lifeless things, the more numb and empty we become.

🛡️ Trust in the Lord—Your Help and Shield

Three times the psalm repeats:

“Trust in the Lord—He is their help and shield.” (vv. 9–11)

Whether you are part of Israel, a priest, or simply a God-fearing believer, the message is clear and universal:
God is trustworthy. He protects. He provides. He defends what belongs to Him.

💬 Blessing, Flourishing, and Praise

Psalm 115 ends with a powerful declaration:

“The Lord remembers us and will bless us… May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children.” (vv. 12–14)

God is not withholding. He delights in blessing His people—not for their perfection, but for their posture of trust and surrender.

And so, the psalm closes with this charge:

“It is we who extol the Lord, both now and forevermore. Praise the Lord.” (v.18)

💡 Final Encouragement:

Psalm 115 calls us to re-center our hearts on the glory of God, to reject the false promises of idols, and to walk in trust that leads to blessing.

📝 Today’s challenge:
Let your praise be louder than your pressure.
Let your trust be deeper than your fear.
And let your life reflect the truth: our God is alive, powerful, and worthy.

🙏🏽 Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Not to us, but to Your name be the glory.
Forgive us for the times we’ve trusted in empty things.
Help us to tear down every idol—seen or unseen—and place our full trust in You.
You are our help, our shield, and the source of every good thing.
We praise You now and forevermore. Amen.