Is It an Idol

I was recently told my Running, Riding and other physical activities were an idol.  This person did not accept my initial comment that they were not idols.  In truth I have no problem with someone asking - even in this instance telling - me what I may be doing is an idol.  The Bible tells us to "flee from idolatry" (1 For 10:14) and in 1 For 6:9-10 to not be "idolaters."  There are many more place that speak to the issue with Idols.  While in many cases the idol in view were figurines of some sort but in context of all of scripture the idea of idols goes to every area of life.  The point being that anything that comes between one and God is an idol - even if it is a "good" thing.  So again being told I have an idol - sure would have rather had it as a question - does not bother me, not accepting my answer of "No" did a little.  Let me add I have no animosity to the person who said this as am sure they meant good by it.

Initially I simply said they were wrong but on more thought I wanted to explain where I am on this as even if I can't change ones mind they then have to grapple with me giving an answer.  Let me start with a good thing like exercise can indeed become an idol when it gets into other areas of life and then distract from ones walk with God.  So I gave the following response that I actually ask my self the question often and pray to make sure my activities are not becoming an idol.  I then shared how in truth the amount of time I spend working out is quite small as a percentage of my week - since I tend to workout in a 6-12 hours/week that comes out to 5 - 7% of my week and if you take out sleep at 56hrs it is then 5 - 10% of my available time so a small amount.  On top of that out of that time I spend it listening to the Bible, sermons and podcasts for 4+ hours of so of the time I work out. As how we spend our time says a lot I think I am good there, at least I feel so.

Also, as far as finding time to workout I schedule around other things I have to do.  Sure there are 2-3 times a year I may have a conflict and miss church or another activity but it is rare.  In truth I work around this as most of my workouts are early or during lunch so in that I think it shows while I do find working out important  I find ways to fit it in and not how to fit other things around my working out. 

When it comes to racing I tend to race less but even then limit the times it would get in the way of attending church, which I see as important.  Again, I may miss a few times but it is rare.  I would also say if things got to be where racing would get in the way I could give it up.  I would still workout as while I do use it to get ready for races I do not workout simply to race.

Lastly, as I said before I ask myself the question often so it is not a subject I avoid.  I think the issue is that even when someone knows you they may not get why I do what I do.  Working out keeps me in the best shape to do whatever God may put before me by being healthy.  I really do not think even people close to those of us who see the importance - even from a spiritual perspective - get it.  While I find this hard I guess I have to expect it as not everyone gets everything and it also makes me keep in mind to check myself on a regular basis.

Is it difficult when questioned this way - sure - but I just need to answer as I can and continually check myself to make sure I am right with God - which to me is the most important thing.  So I leave this with you to ask yourself regularly - IS IT AN IDOL