God’s place in my heart

“Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.”

— 1 John 5:21 (NLT)

What does it mean for something to take God’s place in my heart?

Jesus gave us some insight in Matthew 22:37 (CSB) when He restated the command from Deuteronomy 6:5:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.”

God wants our hearts to be filled with Him — His presence, His peace, His love, His joy – in other words, filled with Him. 
But the truth is, our hearts can be filled with many other things.

They can be full of bitterness, anger, jealousy, greed, or pride.
Or full of ourselves — our own desires, ambitions, and distractions.
Or, by His grace, our hearts can be full of God — full of His love, peace, and joy.

In some Bible translations, 1 John 5:21 says, “Keep yourselves from idols.”
We may think, I don’t have idols — I don’t bow down to statues!
But if an idol is anything that takes God’s place in our hearts, then the definition suddenly becomes much broader.

An idol can be anything that occupies the space in our hearts meant for God.
It could be something that looks good — even wonderful things like relationships, hobbies, work, or ministry. Or maybe something more subtle, like our phones, entertainment, or even comfort habits.

How do we know when something has taken God’s place in our hearts?

Ask yourself:
Do I go to this thing for what God wants to provide for me?

When I’m stressed or weary, where do I turn first for comfort or peace?
Do I pour another cup of coffee, reach for chocolate, scroll my phone, or distract myself with something else — before I pray?

These things aren’t necessarily bad on their own. But when they become what we turn to instead of God, they quietly begin to take His place. That’s when they become idols.

Wondering if something’s an idol?

Try setting it aside for a few days.
If that feels nearly impossible — if it stirs restlessness or anxiety — it may have too much of your heart.

What’s the next step?

When you feel that pull toward something else for comfort or escape — pause.
Take a breath. Talk to God instead. Tell Him what’s weighing on you. Ask Him to fill that space with His peace.

The word repent simply means to turn around.
Turn from what’s been stealing your attention and turn back to Him.

Make room for God again.
Take a few quiet minutes in the morning, a moment at lunch, or a peaceful time before bed to simply be with Him.

Give Him His rightful place — the center of your heart.