Only One is Worthy - Our Idols as a Kid

Focus Scripture

“Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.” – 1 John 5:21

“You shall have no other gods before me.” – Exodus 20:3

Thoughts

Growing up in Flint, Michigan, I had plenty of heroes. My parents top the list!

My dad, Ted Klein - He wasn’t just my father; he was my coach, my role model, my protector. He coached all my sports teams, corrected my mistakes with love, and taught me how to walk with purpose. He showed up, always. And for a kid trying to make sense of the world, that kind of steady presence felt like everything.

My mom, Maureen Klein, was the heart of our home—the quiet strength behind every victory and the comforting voice in every setback. While Dad was out front coaching and leading, Mom was the one holding everything together with grace and unconditional love. She believed in us and sacrificed more than we probably ever realized. Her hugs healed wounds no words could fix, and her steady love gave me a foundation that still grounds me today. She didn’t need a spotlight—her love spoke louder than any cheer ever could.

But I had other idols too—the larger-than-life kind.

I looked up to Detroit Tigers legends like Kirk Gibson, Alan Trammell, and Lou Whitaker. Watching them play made me dream bigger. I admired their confidence, strength, and poise under pressure.

Then there were local heroes—like Eric Turner, the Flint Central basketball phenom, and Jim Abbott, a fellow Flint Central Indian who defied the odds and pitched in the Major Leagues with only one hand. He was a senior at Flint Central while I was a freshman. We both played baseball, from midgets to high school. We did not play together but were on opposite teams in midgets, and while he was the star on varsity, I was getting my feet wet on the junior varsity. They were more than athletes to me—they were symbols of possibility, of greatness carved out of Flint grit.

And here’s the thing: looking up to people isn’t inherently wrong.

We all need mentors, leaders, and those whose example inspires us. Paul said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). There’s something powerful about watching someone else walk well—especially when you're young and searching for direction.

But when admiration turns into adoration, when respect turns into reverence—we’ve stepped into dangerous territory. When we place our hope, our identity, or our emotional security in anyone other than Jesus Christ, we are building on unstable ground.

Even the best people fall short. Even the greatest athletes fade. Even the most faithful earthly fathers can’t save our souls.

Only One is truly worthy. Jesus Christ!

Life Application

Ask yourself: Who holds the throne in my heart today? Is it a parent, a spouse, a pastor, a political figure, or even an idea of success or comfort?

Idolatry isn’t always about golden statues or sports legends—it can be anything we prioritize above Jesus.

God gives us mentors and memories as gifts—but they are not meant to be gods. If your security is rooted in a person or your joy depends on someone else’s presence or approval, invite the Holy Spirit to gently re-center your soul.

Let the people you admire point you toward Jesus, not replace Him.

“Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them.” – Jonah 2:8

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord.” – 1 Peter 3:15

Closing Prayer

Father God, thank You for the people You've placed in my life to lead, guide, and inspire me. Thank You for the legacy of my dad and others who modeled hard work, discipline, and love. But help me remember that no matter how much I admire someone, only You deserve the highest place in my heart. Forgive me for the times I’ve lifted up people or things higher than You. Tear down any idols I’ve unknowingly built—and replace them with a deeper love for Jesus. Let my life be lived not for the approval of men, but for the glory of Christ. Let every good example in my life be a reflection of You—and never a substitute for You.

In the name above every name, Jesus, Amen.